Archived press release

Date Published: 13/11/06

Older people in Buckingham and the surrounding area are being given the chance to get a new pair of slippers and have their electric blanket tested for free, thanks to AVDC and partners. AVDC has teamed up with Buckinghamshire Primary Care Trust,...

Older people in Buckingham and the surrounding area are being given the chance to get a new pair of slippers and have their electric blanket tested for free, thanks to AVDC and partners.

AVDC has teamed up with Buckinghamshire Primary Care Trust, Buckinghamshire County Council, Thames Valley Police and Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service to offer electric blanket safety checks and a sloppy slipper exchange as part of a special wellbeing and safety day on 23 November.

The ‘Senior Wellbeing Fair’ is an opportunity for the over 60s to exchange their old ill-fitting slippers for new fitted non-slip soled ones. Advice and guidance on footwear will also be given with the slippers.

The aim of the sloppy slipper exchange is to provide older people with suitable footwear that will prevent falls and related injuries and, in turn, relive pressure on GPs and hospitals.

Free electric blanket checks are being offered in a bid to reduce the number of fires and injuries caused by worn and faulty blankets. Statistics show that old and damaged electric blankets cause around 5,000 fires each year. Many of these blankets were owned by people over the age of 60, a particularly vulnerable group in the case of domestic fires.

Jenny Newton, Health Improvement Officer, said: “Following the results from previous wellbeing events, we felt it would be of great benefit to our residents to continue to offer these free electric blanket checks. We are also giving people the chance to trade in their old and worn slippers for something more comfortable and a lot safer. It’s not often older people can get something for nothing, and improve their safety at the same time, so I’d encourage them and their families or carers to attend this event.”

As well as the free checks, a team of experts will be on hand to offer advice to visitors about a variety of issues. The experts will include professionals from Buckinghamshire Fire
and Rescue, health and benefits services and the district council’s home service.

Free refreshments will be available and a free lunch will be supplied from 12 noon to 2pm.
A raffle has also been organised to give residents the chance to win three £10 shopping vouchers.

The event will be held at Buckingham Community Centre in Cornwalls Meadow and will run from 10am to 2.30pm. Book in advance for a free electric blanket check by calling Trading Standards on 01296 382910.