“Come in and Rest,” the new Age Friendly scheme, has officially launched launched in West Leeds.
Neighbourhood Action in Farnley, New Farnley and Moor Top hosted an event to roll out the scheme which encourages businesses to invite older people to come in and sit down for a few minutes when they need to.
Participating organisations put a sticker in their window to signal that theirs are premises where older people know they are welcome.
Local residents, business owners and Councillor David Blackburn (Green, Farnley & Woirtley) were all in attendance to show their support.
Karen Buckland, manager at Neighbourhood Action, said:
“This is such a simple idea that will have a great impact in making the area more age friendly. Sometimes when people are out and about they just need a spot to rest their feet for a few minutes, and seeing the Come In and Rest sticker in the window of a local business will let them know they are welcome to do that.
“Response from local businesses so far has been very positive. We’ve got a great sense of community in this area and business owners are keen to help out.”
Organisations which have already signed up include Hair Lounge, Cafe Blanco, Debz Sandwich Bar, Turner’s Newsagents, The Flower Pot and Wortley Funeralcare. If your business would like to join the scheme, or help promote it, visit the website or ring 0113 244 1697.
Time to Shine is a programme, led by older people, that aims to reduce loneliness and social isolation in people over the age of 50.