Organisations and businesses across the Gedling borough are being encouraged to sign up to a campaign which aims to assure older and disabled shoppers that they’ll always have a welcoming place to have a sit down when out and about.
More than 300 businesses and community organisations across the county have already made a commitment to make their shops and buildings more age-friendly by displaying a ‘We are Age Friendly’ sticker.
Around 30 of these organisations are in Gedling borough, namely along Arnold’s Front Street including the Lighthouse Charity Shop, Petfood Supplies and The Milk Lounge.
Councillor Gordon Wheeler, the county council’s Deputy Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Health said: “We applaud those businesses which are providing reassurance to older people and people with a disability or chronic illness that they will be offered a seat when they go inside, should they need to rest.
“Many shops will also offer a drink and, if accessible, use of their toilet facilities.
“We are passionate about helping older people stay independent and connected to their communities. It is so important for people’s mental health and helps reduce the risk of feeling lonely and isolated.”
One organisation already signed up is The Nottingham, including its branches in Arnold and Mapperley.
Jennie Cooper is the branch manager of the building society and explains why signing up to this scheme is a simple, yet effective way of showing the community that they care.
She said: “We are incredibly proud to support this campaign. All of our eight branches across the county are a welcoming place for people to pop in for a place to rest, catch their breath, or even just have a friendly chat.
“We understand there may be those who find shopping trips a bit daunting at times, so the simple gesture of providing a seat and a friendly face can make a world of difference to someone.
“We would encourage other Notts businesses and organisations to sign up to ‘take a seat’ if they haven’t done already.”
For further information about this campaign, including which businesses are taking part and how they can sign up for free, visit the website
https://www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/care/health-and-wellbeing/take-a-seat/gedling
I’m all for this scheme can I go in any shop just to keep warm being a pensioner
Having recently become a disabled pensioner (it still feels weird calling myself that) I can’t see anything bad about this scheme. Well done Gedling!