Issue 3 l Winter 2009

agenda
Kingston upon Thames

FREE!

Your view, your life, your news

Keeping warm page 9

INSIDE:

ACKuT Impact Report page 3

Pop star Glen Mason page 7

Accessible transport for all

In the July issue of agenda, we highlighted the problem of access to transport for older people in Kingston. This issue has continued to be a hot topic, with the recent publication of the Mayors draft transport plan and a report on accessing transport by Age Concern. According to the report, entitled Breaking the Barriers, 30 per cent of over 60s say they have real difficulties travelling in the capital. If you cant access transport you cant take part in social activities and volunteering, make use of educational, cultural and leisure opportunities or access health and social care services. This reinforces an older persons sense of physical and social isolation and has a huge cost for their independence, quality of life and health and well-being.
Copyright Age Concern

Accessible transport hubs linking together better quality, integrated and reliable services Better safety on buses More consistent, coherent & reliable door-to-door transport Improved capacity and quality of transport to health services Step-free access to more Underground and railway stations

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Transport barriers affect quality of life

The transport plan for the London 2012 Olympic Games, which aims to create a network of accessible transport for all, is being cited as a model of a positive, joined up approach to transport.

Involved
There seems to be a postcode lottery in terms of service provision and entitlement to door-to-door services. Capital Call, a door-to-door minicab service for people with mobility problems who live in areas of London with a shortage of London taxis, ended in Kingston at the beginning of October. The remaining door-to-door services, TaxiCard and Dial-a-Ride, suffer from problems with reliability and quality. Locally, the number of journeys being rejected by Dial-a-Ride has increased in the past two years, with 1,784 journeys being turned down this year because the service was apparently over-booked or could not meet the specific mobility problem of the resident, despite many people reporting that minibuses are only driving one or two people around. In Kingston, these problems have led to a substantial drop in the number of Dial-a-Ride members from over 1,000 people to 497 as of May this year. Some steps have been made towards improving transport for older and disabled Londoners in recent years. The introduction of the Freedom Pass, which allows over 60s to travel for free 24 hours a day on most London transport services, is one. But much more still needs to be done. It is vital that Londons older and disabled population are involved in the consultation process in order to ensure that any transport proposals which affect them address their concerns, needs and wishes and enhance rather than diminish their quality of life.
(See page 2 for an outline of the Mayors draft transport plan.)

Access
Many older and disabled Londoners find that the transport system does not operate as it is intended or should. Rather than there being an integrated and coherent transport network, individual transport services seem to operate independently of one another. Different modes of transport such as buses, tubes, trains and door-to-door transport services need to link up seamlessly so that people with mobility problems can travel freely from their starting point to their destination and back. What is the use in being able to get on a bus if you cant get to the bus stop in the first place?

Campaign
In October, Age Concern and Help the Aged arranged a conference with London-based transport campaigning organisations to discuss the findings of the report and to call for improvements to be made to access to transport for older people. These include:

Age discrimination in NhS to be outlawed

Health Secretary Andy Burnham has announced that age discrimination in health and social care will be outlawed from 2012 as part of the Equality Bill currently before parliament. This follows a review which shows that older people get a worse deal from the NHS. A survey earlier this year showed that almost half of doctors who care for older people believe the NHS is institutionally ageist. Although progress has been made in tackling explicit discrimination, the reports findings show that indirect discrimination, often linked to ageist attitudes and assumptions, is still a problem and has just as negative an impact on service users and public confidence as outright prejudice. The review highlights concerns over the poor treatment given to over 65s with mental health problems. Currently, people over 65 are excluded from mental health services
Copyright Age Concern

available to younger adults and are instead referred to older peoples services where the same support is not available.

Survival
According to the report, age discrimination is also evident in cancer mortality figures, which show that the UK has a higher death rate from cancer in the over 75s than the rest of Western Europe and the US. Breast cancer screening is a particular area of concern. Although the upper age limit for breast cancer screening is being raised from 70 to 73, research shows that survival rates among women over 75 with breast cancer are relatively poorer, and women over 80 face more limited access to tests and treatment than younger women. Certain vaccination and screening programmes are targeted at specific age groups, such as seasonal flu

vaccinations for over 65s and breast cancer screening for 50-70 year olds and the report says that this can only be justified when supported by definitive scientific evidence about at-risk groups. Age restrictions would also apply in areas such as fertility treatment.

Choice
The report says that care and treatment should be based on individual needs rather than age and suggests that the implementation of the personalisation agenda, whereby people are given greater choice and control over the support they receive, will do a great deal to tackle age discrimination. However, it highlighted the fact that many older people may feel overwhelmed by having so much choice with little or no advice given to them and therefore stresses the importance of supporting people in the decision-making process.

Ending discrimination will lead to better care

The Mayor of Londons draft transport plan was released on 12 October and the public is now being invited to give comments and feedback in a consultation process that will end on 12 January 2010. The outcome of the public consultation is expected to be published in Spring 2010. To register your views, go to www.london.gov.uk/shaping-london. Here is an outline of some of the proposals which may affect older people: l A more accessible transport system promotion of a whole journey approach improving information, customer services, interchanges and increasing stepfree access (although Boris Johnson has announced that projects such as stepfree access will be slowed down due to public spending restrictions) l Improved assistance making staff more available and improving their training to ensure that the access needs of older and disabled passengers are understood by all frontline staff, particularly bus drivers and station staff l Affordable fares continuing to offer concessions and maintain free travel for the over 60s.

Run to the Beat: half marathon success

Jyoti Patel, Age Concern Kingstons Operations Coordinator, met the amazing challenge of running a half marathon in aid of the charity in September: Before the race I had been doing three running sessions a week and had loaded up on lots of carbs. Race day was a 5am start. Vijay (my brother) and I met up at the O2 Arena in the morning, checked in and got in our allocated spot behind the start line. It took 20 minutes to reach the start after the gunshot. We soon realised it was becoming a hot day but we had no energy to waste on whinging. Vijay is younger, faster and more athletic than me but he promised to stay with Jyoti and Vijay me. At the halfway point, I felt happy for him to run ahead of me. Five minutes later, I turned a corner and was confronted with an unpleasant surprise a massive hill. I was half expecting to see Vijay sprawled across the tarmac but he wasnt there he must have kept going. After that it was pretty steady until miles 11 and 12 when I took walking breaks. I did however save some magic for a sprint finish. The day was pretty hazy after that family, friends, beer, smiles and aches starting to creep in, and just feeling proud of ourselves. My finish time was 2hrs 37mins. I finished 8330 out of 9039. Together, Vijay and I raised 796.81 for Age Concern. Thanks to everyone who sponsored us! hearty congratulations to Jyoti for a magnificent effort!

How to contact us: Age Concern Kingston upon Thames 14 Nelson Road, New Malden, KT3 5EA Telephone: 020 8942 8256 Email: admin@ageconcernkingston.org Website: www.ageconcernkingston.org First Contact Telephone Helpline: 020 8408 8170 (MonFri 10am12pm) Email: firstcontact@ageconcernkingston.org
Editorial Team: Laura Barker, Anne Bren, Shane Brennan, Janet Evans, Natasha Rosner. agenda email: agenda@ageconcernkingston.org You can now view agenda on our website: www.ageconcernkingston.org and follow the links. The views expressed in agenda are not necessarily those of the trustees, staff or volunteers. Published by Age Concern Kingston upon Thames. Registered charity no. 299988 Company no. 2272550 Design: Eileen Higgins, email: eileen@eh-design.co.uk Print: Park Communications Ltd, telephone: 020 70556500. Printed on 100% recycled paper

Kingston in Bloom
For the second year running, the Bradbury Centre garden has won a prize in the Kingston in Bloom awards, coming third in the Best Community Space category. This is a tribute to the Bradbury gardener, volunteer Brian Mulley (pictured opposite), and all the other volunteers and members who have helped make the garden a place that is enjoyed by all.

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AGENDA EDIToRIAL

Letters
Agenda has had an excellent start with the first two editions being well thought out and informative. Its useful to have events listed which are relevant to Kingston and older people in the borough. Maybe members of Age Concern Kingstons day centres and older people in Kingston could be involved more in agenda by being invited to write articles of personal experiences which touch us all, on subjects such as bereavement and loss of status, for example the inability to manage ones self or ones own affairs and being reliant on others because of a disability or being elderly gay or lesbian. Keith Bullard (Bradbury Centre Member and Volunteer) Thank you for your valuable comments and suggestions. We agree with you and would definitely like to encourage older people both at our centres and in the wider community to write short articles and letters on issues of concern or interest to them. Please email or write to us.

Please send your comments and feedback to agenda Age Concern Kingston upon Thames 14 Nelson Road, New Malden, KT3 5EA or send an email to agenda@ageconcernkingston.org

Resourcing the future

The credit crunch will have a big impact on public funding for the next five years and probably longer. Against this background we trust that short term thinking doesnt undermine the longer term necessity. We hope that local decision makers do not lose sight of the bigger health and social care picture. With increasing numbers of older people and with more of us living longer, low level support and preventative services will become more important in helping more of us to live healthier and safer lives. We see Age Concern Kingston as a key partner with the local authority and Kingston NHS. Much of what we do as an organisation, and more importantly what we could do, can make a real difference to many peoples lives. Prevention and community support services should be fully resourced in order for them to have a much greater impact in our community. There will be huge consequences for health and social care services if preventative and well-being activities are not greatly expanded over the coming years. In the next edition of agenda we will produce a manifesto of the issues that we feel politicians should champion in the coming election campaigns. Let us know what you think.

Feedback
We continue to receive positive feedback on agenda. here are some of your comments: Agenda sounds like an excellent initiative by Age Concern Kingston. I believe we are all working towards a fairer life for the old and a more age-friendly society so I am always pleased to know of your activities. I send my good wishes for your success. Joan Bakewell, Voice of Older People, broadcaster and journalist Informative and entertaining. Gerti Wilford Inspirational. Well done. Neslyn Watson Druee, Chairman, Kingston Primary Care Trust Agenda is a very, very good challenge. The name is catchy, the colour is lovely and the design appeals with a professional approach. I have circulated it within my house and they like the feel of it and all it contains. The layout is good and clear too. Angela Peter Commendable initiative which will enhance the image of Age Concern Kingston. Vasanth Kumaran, Printwell

We wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

Swine flu update

The swine flu vaccination programme has now started and those considered to be most at risk are first on the list to receive the vaccine. The good news for over 65s is that most healthy older people appear to have some natural immunity to the swine flu virus. This means that they are not considered an at risk group, and will be one of the last groups to receive the vaccine. However, over 65s who have health problems, particularly those that affect the immune system, are recommended to have the vaccine. If you are in an at risk group, you should receive a letter from your GP to call you in for the vaccine.

Making later life a greater life

In October Age Concern Kingston held its Annual General Meeting at the Bradbury Centre. The Mayor, Councillor Ian McDonald, gave the closing remarks and the boroughs Head of Community Care Services, Simon Pearce, who was interviewed in the July issue of agenda, gave a presentation on personal budgets entitled Change and Transformation, the Future of Community Care Services in Kingston. The Chief Executive of Age Concern Kingston, Shane Brennan, over 50 people attended the AGM launched our 2009 Impact Report, Making later life a greater life, which celebrates our 10th anniversary and outlines our achievements over the last year based on the aims we set out a year ago, as well as our objectives for the next 12 months. The report shows that we have achieved much of what we set out to do a year ago, enhancing many of our services including the Advice, Advocacy and Information service and the Home Buddy scheme, as well as launching two new projects: Stay Well (featured on page 4) and Home Response (featured in the July issue of agenda). Next year, we want to continue to improve our current activities as well as seeking funding to develop new services which support people to remain safe and independent in their own homes. As reported in the September issue of agenda, we will also be launching a handyperson service in the coming months. Age Concern Kingstons 2009 Impact Report can be downloaded from our website www.ageconcernkingston.org. If you would like to receive a paper copy, please contact us (see page 2 for contact details).

Dont forget your seasonal flu jab too!

Swine flu and seasonal flu are different strains of the flu virus, and one vaccination will not protect you against the other form of the virus. Unlike swine flu, seasonal flu affects over 65s more than any other age group. The NHS suggests that everyone over the age of 65 and anyone with a pre-existing medical condition that may lower your immune system, such as diabetes, heart problems or asthma, should be vaccinated against seasonal flu. It is important that you are vaccinated against seasonal flu every year, as each year the virus changes, and you will not be protected unless you have received the most recent vaccine. Although it is best to be vaccinated in the autumn, it is never too late to have the flu jab. Speak to your GP or local pharmacist for more information.

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AGENDA VoLuNTEERING & FuNDRAISING

The Stay Well Programme needs you!

The Stay Well Programme is a new initiative recently launched by Age Concern Kingston and is now looking for volunteers.
The Programme is based on a relatively new but simple idea, with only a couple of similar projects elsewhere in the country. Every year thousands of older people who live independently at home, attend their GP surgeries, the local Accident & Emergency department, or go into hospital as a result of becoming ill, being isolated at home, or having a fall or accident. In many cases these incidents could have been prevented by identifying and addressing the risks or issues at an earlier stage. This is what The Stay Well Programme aims to do. Following a referral from the GP, the Programme Co-ordinator will visit the person concerned (the client) to find out a bit more about them and how the Programme may be of support and assistance. A Well Plan, which is a simple action plan, is then drawn up together and this is put into action. Depending on the time you can commit, this Keeping in touch might involve visiting Keeping well the client once a week Keeping independent for a couple of hours. Some tasks you might undertake on these visits; include: help with preventing falls and accidents by clearing pathways in the home or tidying up clothes etc, simple odd jobs in the home or garden, supporting the client if they are feeling low or depressed and helping them get out of their home on local trips, providing information about a wide range of community services and Who can I contact? transport available to them. If you think you would like to
Copyright Age Concern

Volunteer profile
Janet Evans, editorial team
My five years at Age Concern has flown by! Believe it or not, it all started with an upholstery class. I had been wanting to do some voluntary work but was unsure which direction to pursue. I mentioned this to my tutor and she introduced me to a manager from Age Concern who came to another of her classes, thinking that my experience could be useful there. I had been an editor in book publishing and had done lots of office work. I also felt that many older people get a raw deal and anything I could do to promote their interests would be worthwhile. So when Age Concern offered me the role of editor of its newsletter, I was delighted. Since then, I have seen agenda develop from a simple A4 black and white sheet, with a distribution of about 150, to its present tabloid newspaper format and distribution to about 3,000 organisations and individuals in the borough. We have a much wider coverage now, with copies going to GP surgeries, libraries, churches as well as our partner organisations such as the Royal Borough of Kingston. The editorial team has also expanded to include two other volunteers, Laura and Claire, who are both studying journalism, as well as several members of staff at Age Concern. I am lucky to be part of this lively, friendly team. Being part of the editorial team is interesting because you meet people in all parts of the organisation and learn a lot about their work and experiences. Talking to members has given me a new perspective on life as an older person in Kingston. I always look forward to Fridays because I never quite know what will happen or who I will meet.

What does being a Stay Well volunteer involve?

Each volunteer would initially work with one older person referred to the Programme and based on the needs identified in the clients Well Plan.

What is required of me?

Ideally, you would be able to commit between one to four hours each week for at least a three month period. It would also be useful if you lived in, or close to the Kingston area.

volunteer for the Stay Well project, or if you would like more information, please call Tulloch Kempe, Stay Well Programme Co-ordinator, on 020 8942 8256 (Ext 311) or send an email to tulloch@ageconcernkingston.org.

The big knit

Knitters old and young have been clicking their needles to raise funds for Age Concern Kingston as part of The Big Knit, our award-winning campaign to help older people keep healthy. This year the Innocent drinks company requested that we knit vegetable pot warmers rather than the smoothie bobble hats of previous years. The pots contain tasty veg, whole grains and different sauces, seasoned with fresh herbs and spices. Varieties include Thai coconut curry and Mexican sweet potato chilli and you just heat them up in the microwave. After a nail-biting week when we were 300 short of our target, knitters put on the pace and finished an astonishing 741 pot warmers! Innocent will give Age Concern Kingston 44p for every pot warmer, which means that we shall raise at least 286. The promotional pots should be on sale now in Sainsburys stores so look out for them. Special thanks go to Ann Muir and Yvonne Salim at the Bradbury Centre who each knitted over 100 warmers but well done and thank you to everyone who took part!

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First Contact l 020 8408 8170

Carers missing out

Many people who look after loved ones do not identify themselves as carers and as a result, may not be aware of the fact that they may be entitled to certain state benefits. The main benefit is the Carers Allowance, which is currently 53.10 a week and can be claimed by people who meet the following criteria: l You must be 16 years old or over l You must look after someone for at least 35 hours a week l The person you look after must receive a Disability Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance l If you work you must not earn more than 95 net per week l You must be living in the UK when you claim Carers Allowance l You must not be a full-time student. This is defined as supervised studying for over 21 hours a week l You must not be receiving a state pension Later in life, carers can be Carers shouldnt miss out particularly affected financially. Many older carers assume that they will not If you care for someone, or are someone qualify for benefits because they receive a state who is being cared for or who is in need pension. Although they cannot receive Carers of care, and would like more advice or Allowance as well as a state pension, they may information about the Carers Allowance or be entitled to what is known as Underlying any other issue of concern, please contact our Entitlement, which involves top up allowances First Contact Advice Line on the number at the on existing benefits. However, the complexities top of the page. of the system mean that currently carers who The NHS has recently set up a national carers receive a state pension have to apply for a information service: www.nhs.uk/ Carers Allowance, even though they are not carersdirect/Pages/CarersDirecthome.aspx, eligible for it, in order to receive the additional email CarersDirect@nhschoices.nhs.uk or top-up. It has been recommended that this be call Carers Direct on 0808 802 0202. The Royal changed so carers can apply directly for top up Borough of Kingston also has information allowances. There is also a need to address the about services available to carers in the overlapping benefit rule experienced by older borough. See their website for more details: carers in receipt of a state pension. www.kingston.gov.uk/caring_for_someone.
Copyright Age Concern

Electric blanket safety

Many older people rely on electric blankets to keep them warm in bed during the winter. However, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers of using an electric blanket. Old or damaged electric blankets cause more than 5000 house fires a year and people aged 65 and over are at the most risk with six times the national average of fatal injuries. In September, Kingston trading standards carried out a free electric blanket testing day in the borough and found that 42% of the blankets examined were potentially unsafe. Most were more than 10 years old and common faults included exposed internal wires, damaged wiring and a lack of overheating protection. Environmental health and trading standards urged people whose electric blankets are more than 10 years old to think about replacing them as many of the older ones are not fitted with protection against overheating. Kingston residents who would like their electric blanket checked should contact Kingston trading standards electric blanket number on 020 8547 5518.

Key safety measures

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Always buy a new blanket second hand blankets may not be safe Have your blanket checked by an expert at least every three years or as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure it is still safe to use Always read the manufacturers instructions carefully and follow them Never use a blanket with scorch marks or exposed elements Never use the blanket if its wet or creased. Never switch it on to dry out Never use a hot water bottle and an electric blanket together Check the plug cord for any signs of wear or damage Do not fit the blanket to an adaptor or multi-socket block with another appliance plugged in Make sure the power is turned off at the wall and the blanket is unplugged if not in use Always spread the blanket out never use it folded Keep the blanket stored carefully over the summer months refer to the manufacturers instructions on how best to do this Most electric blankets are designed not to be washed always check the manufacturers instructions

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Carers Rights Day 2009

December 4 2009 is National Carers Rights Day, when groups across the UK work together and run events supporting and speaking up for the UKs 6 million carers. This years theme is Caring for your income and pension. When giving up work to care, carers may not think about their pension but if they dont get the right advice, they could be missing out on vital contributions to their state pension which could affect them in the long term. Carers Rights Day 2009 will be about ensuring that carers get all the financial support they are entitled to now and in the future.

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AGENDA FoCuS

Accessing the internet

Currently, only half of over 50s have access to the internet. Societys growing dependency on the internet for everything from communication to accessing information and managing finances means that people unfamiliar with digital technology are becoming increasingly marginalised socially. Despite the numerous discounts over 60s may receive, research suggests that older people are still missing out on the best deals by not using the internet. Many services are switching to online only. Service providers, such as Virgin Media, may charge users who wish to pay by conventional methods, rather than e-billing, where your bill is emailed to you. Many retail outlets, such as Sainsburys, will now only let you apply for jobs online. The top interest rates for savings accounts can also only be found on the internet, and more and more councils are publicising their services online.
Richard Bailey

Marginalised
Although the majority of those considered to be digitally excluded are older people, people with learning difficulties or who come from low income or poor educational backgrounds as well as ex-offenders and, more surprisingly, young people, may also have limited access to the internet. Digital exclusion only serves to reinforce the marginalised status of many of these groups of people. An awareness of the need to close the digital divide has become one of the governments priorities. In a recent interview with the BBC, Martha Lane Fox, the governments digital inclusion expert said: I dont think you can be a proper citizen of our society in the future if you are not engaged online.

Age Concern Kingston offers computer classes which have been highly rated by users. If you dont even know how to turn a computer on, or if you know the basics and would like to learn more, we can help you! Computer classes are free to members at Raleigh house and 4 per class at the Bradbury Centre. See pages 10 and 11 for more information and contact details.

(Information and Communications Technologies) is the third basic life skill after literacy and numeracy. Watchdog OFCOM has found that older people would happily become silver surfers if they had the right help and support. Many who took part in the survey said the ideal would be classes designed for and run by older people for older people.

advice held online. Reassurances have been given that these people will be able to call a dedicated number or approach a local information and advice provider that will access the online database on their behalf.

Is it fair that the best deals are available online only? Do you feel older people are being excluded by the internet? Write to us at agenda and let us know what you think. See page 2 for contact details.

Reassurances
Locally, one way the council is seeking to transform access to information and advice is through the development of a new dedicated website in partnership with a number of voluntary agencies. Age Concern Kingston, along with other third sector partners in the Information and Advice Partnership, has argued strongly that many people will require support to access the information and

Commitment
However, leading digital inclusion charity Citizens Online says the long awaited Digital Britain report, launched by the government in June, lacks any serious government commitment to get the 8 million British adults online who have never used the internet. The charity also says how it is now widely accepted that knowledge of ICT

On Thursday 19 November, computers were delivered to Age Concern Kingston as part of Age Concern Londons Computers for Older People scheme, in conjunction with PHS Maxitech. PHS Maxitech collect unwanted, redundant computers from businesses and organisations, refurbish them and then donate them to Age Concern London for free distribution to older people signed up to the scheme. So far, over 1,000 computers have been donated to older people across London. 36 percent of recipients commented that it has dramatically improved their daily life, with 74 percent saying that it has greatly increased their knowledge of ICT. As well as helping to combat digital exclusion and social isolation amongst older adults, the computer recycling scheme also has an ethical and environmental agenda by tackling the problem of waste electrical goods. Unfortunately, due to a waiting list of over a year, no new names are currently being accepted onto the scheme but further details will be given as and when this changes.

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AGENDA PRoFILE

Kingstons pop star resident

Move over Ronnie Wood because Kingston has another chart-topping resident in its midst. His name is Glen Mason and he has been rediscovered in a local care home.
Glen was a 1950s heart throb and achieved great success throughout the 50s and 60s. He made No. 1 with his hit single Shadrack, and now, at the age of 78, Glen has been rediscovered and is releasing a three disc album packed full of some of his best-loved songs. Glens pop star status became apparent when volunteers from Age Concerns Home Buddy project started coming to his care home. One of the volunteers, who was helping to research residents life stories, realised they had a pop star in their midst. He persevered and by 1954, he had been picked up by Beatles producer George Martin and by the newly founded record label Phillips. The third single he released, The Man with the Banjo was well received and helped launch his career. He joined Jack Jacksons Saturday night TV show where he was resident singer.

What is the home Buddy scheme?

There are many older people living in residential care who do not have regular visitors, or who are vulnerable to abuse. The Home Buddy scheme aims to support and empower older people living in residential care so that they feel more confident in dealing with issues that affect their quality of life. Volunteers visit older people in care homes across the borough in order to chat, listen and be a friend. According to Project Co-ordinator Sharon Fleming, the Home Buddy project has encouraged the goals of the National Service Framework for Older People. By promoting a person-centered approach to all residents it can produce important outcomes for improving well-being and choice. By becoming a Home Buddy you can improve an older persons emotional well-being and quality of life by sharing stories, interests and, most importantly, humour and fun. Would you like to become a home buddy? If so, please contact project coordinator Sharon Fleming on 020 8942 8256 or email sharon@ageconcernkingston.org.

Charts
Over the following months he released single after single, and changed record labels several times. In 1956 he signed up with Parlophone and released a version of Perry Como`s No.1 stateside hit Hot Diggity. He later released more covers, another Como hit, Glendora, which reached No. 28 in the charts, and Frankie Vaughns Green Door, which made No. 24. According to the official Glen Mason website, www.glenmason.co.uk, Glen had been on TV at least once a week for three years, on shows such as The Black and White Minstrels, Alfred Marks

Glen Mason with Sharon Fleming

Passion
Originally from Stirling, Scotland, Glen always had a passion for singing and he regularly took part in local amateur concerts as a teenager. In 1952, at the age of 21, Glen made the big decision to move to London to try and get into show business. At first he was unsuccessful and he was regularly forced to return home to Scotland when he had run out of money.

Time and Max Bygraves Entertains. In 1959 on a visit to America, Glen was a guest on Dave Kings US TV show, for which he received highly rated reviews, helping earn him his own ITV Saturday Spectacular that November. In May 1960 he appeared on the Royal Variety Show at the Victoria Palace. As Glen got older, he moved from theatre, to composing music for films, to becoming a golfer!

Come-back
Glen is now staging his own comeback with the release of the three disc album with some of his greatest hits as well as some rare recordings that have never been released, in conjunction with EMI Records. At the time of going to press, it was expected Glens album would be out in the first week of December. Sharon Fleming, Home Buddy Project Co-ordinator, states that as a result of this intervention by the Home Buddy scheme, Glen and his family now have a compilation of all of his songs and clips from TV shows. As Glen told me my son never believed I was a pop star! I think he will now. Who says once you go into a care home, you cant make a song and dance? If you would like to listen to songs by Glen Mason, go to www.glenmason. co.uk. You can also see performances by Glen Mason on You Tube: www. youtube.com. Do you remember Glen Mason? If so, let us know! Please send your letters or emails to the contact details on page two.

My son never believed I was a pop star! I think he will now

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DIARY DATES Upcoming activities and events in Kingston upon Thames

Age Concern training and events
Safeguarding Adult Awareness half day sessions
Wednesday 27 January 27 2010 10.00am 1.00pm Raleigh House To give people who work or volunteer in care the confidence to be able to recognise an adult who may be vulnerable to being abused, and how to respond to this kind of situation. Anyone wishing to attend please call Sharon Fleming on 020 8408 8179.

Christmas Events
St James Church Christmas Lunch
Saturday 25 December at Raleigh house, New Malden (see page 2 for address) St James Church is organising a Christmas Lunch on Christmas Day for single people or married couples living alone in the New Malden area. The church would also welcome the assistance of a carer who could deal with any problems their guests may have on the day. For more information please contact Nicola Ash on 020 8337 4071.

Christmas Party for Volunteers, Supporters and Friends

Thursday 10 December, Raleigh House, New Malden 5.00pm

Age Concern lunch clubs

The Fountain Court lunch club Tuesdays (12.00pm 2.00pm) at Fountain Court, New Malden For information call 020 8942 8256 The Charles Lesser lunch club Wednesdays (12.00pm 2.00pm) at Charles Lesser House, Chessington

All Saints Parish Church

Community Carol Service and Christmas Party Tuesday 16 December 6.30pm

united Reform Church, Eden Street

Carols by Candlelight Sunday 21 December 6.30pm

Whats on in Kingston
Royal Borough of Kingston Council Meetings
If you would like to see democracy in action why not come along to one of the councils meetings? Check the RBK website under meeting dates calendar for details of dates and venues. Website: www.kingston.gov.uk/meetingdates Email: democratic.services@rbk.kingston.gov.uk Phone: 020 8547 5021

Kingston Parish Church

Kingston Choral Societys Christmas Concert Kingston Choral Society perform Rutters Magnificat and Brittens St Nicolas Saturday 12 December 2009 7.30pm

hampton Court Palace

Ice Skating The Ice Rink is open 28 November 2009 10 January 2010 Carol Singing Saturday 20 December Tuesday 23 December, 6.00pm Join the Epsom & Ewell Silver Band for the annual do-it-yourself carol singing around the palace courtyards and gardens. Words will be provided just bring your singing voice and a torch to see the words by. This is an outdoor event, lasting about an hour, so remember to wrap up warmly.

Kingston Pensioners Forum

Monday 11 January 2.00pm A Working Holiday in Sri Lanka talk and presentation by Lynne Simpkins Monday 8 February 2.00pm Life and Times in the Royal Borough talk by the History Officer from Kingston History Museum Meetings are usually held on the second Monday of every month. For more information email kingspen@tiscali.co.uk

Christmas shopping
Eden Craft & Gift Fair
7 November 24 December All Saints Parish Church Green opposite John Lewis Open Daily: 9.00am 5.30pm (Sunday 10.00am 5.00pm) Late night opening on Thursdays until 7.00pm Open every day until 7.00pm from Monday 8 December until 23 December

Any Questions?
with Bruce McDonald, Chief Executive Kingston Council Thursday 4 December 1.10 pm, All Saints Parish Church

The Amy Woodgate Dementia Caf

Nigel Fisher Way, Chessington (next to the Merritt Medical Centre)
The Amy Woodgate Dementia Caf is a meeting place where new and current carers can talk to friends and professionals and enjoy refreshments and activities throughout the year. More importantly, you can chat with other carers and get support from each other. The next caf groups will be: Wednesday 16 December Christmas Party Wednesday 27 January, Wednesday 24 February, Wednesday 31 March For more information about these events and the times, please call the Amy Woodgate Caf on 07535 964435.

German Christmas Market

3 November 29 December 10.00am to 8.00pm Ancient Market Place, Kingston

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health and well-being

Keeping warm this winter
In the last five years more than 130000 people over 65 have died from cold related illnesses during the winter months in Britain, a higher number than in colder European countries such as Finland and Austria. In Kingston, it was reported that there are on average 93 excess winter deaths per year, a number which far exceeds the national average and in fact comes close to the worst rate in the country. This has been recognised as an important public health problem in the borough. Shane Brennan, CEO of Age Concern Kingston said: Everyone acknowledges that these deaths are preventable. It is shocking that in an affluent community like Kingston people can still die due to cold when often very simple measures can save lives.
Copyright Age Concern

number of deaths during the preceding autumn (August to November) and the following summer (April to July).

What causes excess winter deaths?

Spending too long in the cold will lower the body temperature which can often aggravate circulatory diseases leading to strokes and heart attacks or respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

Do people actually die of the cold?

Exposure to the cold does affect the number of winter deaths but it is rarely the primary cause. In the majority of cases, these deaths are from respiratory or cardio-vascular problems which may be exacerbated by the cold and may often occur several days after exposure to the cold.

cold meaning they may not put on an extra jumper or put on the heating before they get too cold. l Many older people tend to live in older houses with inefficient heating systems and/or no insulation. This makes it harder to heat their homes. l Older people often try to cut their energy bills by reducing the amount of heating they use. l Older people on low incomes spend up to 30 per cent less on food than is needed for a healthy balanced diet. This puts their physical and mental well-being at risk and could make them more vulnerable to the cold. Older people and their carers who experience short-term difficulties due to illnesses aggravated by the cold may be able to receive help, for example with shopping, from Age Concerns Home Response Service. Please contact the Home Response team on 020 8408 8176 or email homeresponse@ ageconcernkingston.org for more information.

What are excess winter deaths?

Excess winter deaths are defined by the Office of National Statistics as the difference between the number of deaths during the four winter months (December to March) and the average

Why are older people particularly affected?

Older people with existing health problems are more at risk so they need to take extra care when it is cold. l Older people are less able to judge if they are warm or
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how to stay warm

Dress appropriately l Wear thin layers of clothes rather than one thick layer l Choose clothes made with wool, cotton, or fleecy synthetic materials Stay active l Dont sit still for long periods l Spread chores through the day and alternate between rest and activity l Exercise without taking risks in wet or icy weather Eat well l Eat at least one hot meal a day l Sip hot drinks regularly

l Keep a hot drink in a flask l Stock up on provisions in case it is too cold to go to the shops heat your home well l Set your heating to the right temperature (1821C/6470F) l If you dont want to heat your bedroom all the time, make sure its warm before you go to bed l Set the timer on your heating to come on before you get up and switch off when you go to bed l In very cold weather, rather than turn the thermostat up, set the heating to come on earlier so you wont be

cold while you wait for your home to heat up Look after yourself l On cold days try to avoid going outside; however, if you do need to, remember to wrap up warm l Get a flu jab (see page 3 for more information) Getting financial support l There are grants, benefits and sources of advice available to make your home more energy efficient, improve your heating or help with bills. Contact Age Concerns advice team for more information see page 2 for contact details.

Living actively
This year saw Kingstons over 45s dancing the days away with the boroughs free dance classes held over the summer. Age Concerns Active Living Project secured a grant from Play Sport London to put on various dance classes, including tea dancing, Bollywood and Green Candle workshops (for people with mobility problems). Dance has proven to be one of the most popular and fastest growing activities for people over 45 and is considered to be one of the most sociable and fun ways of keeping fit.

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The Bradbury
The Bradbury Centre offers a wide range of activities, events and trips for the over 50s in a friendly, lively and welcoming environment. It is located 10 minutes away from Kingston town centre and works on a drop-in basis. Membership costs 1.00 a day or 24.00 for the year, less if you are joining midway through the year (8.00 from December March). Winter opening times Monday Friday: 10.00am 4.00pm. (Please note, from 4.00pm 4.30pm on Mondays the centre is open to yoga participants only.) Bradbury, 37b Grange Road, Kingston KT1 2RA Telephone: 020 8549 1230 Email: bradbury@ageconcernkingston.org Centre Manager: Wendy Reid

Great Sunday Lunch

On Sunday 18 October 2009, 30 Bradbury Centre members enjoyed a three-course meal at The Great Sunday Lunch, a charity fundraising event held as part of an Age Concern England initiative. Bradbury staff volunteered alongside regular volunteers and members enjoyed pt on toast, a roast chicken dinner with all the trimmings, followed by apple pie and custard. Entertainment was provided by a volunteer in the form of a tricky but fun Sunday Quiz. Members hailed the event as a great success saying how lovely it was to enjoy such delicious food on a Sunday and have such great company.

upcoming outings and events at The Bradbury

Date Tuesday 1 December Tuesday 1 December Thursday 3 December Tuesday 15 December Friday 18 December Time 12.00 10.00 3.00 2.00 4.00 12.00 4.00 11.00 Event Body Shop Pamper Morning make-up and hand massage Christmas gift / art and craft table top sale Christmas Quiz with mulled wine and mince pies Bradbury Christmas lunch and sing-a-long Rah Rah Theatre Christmas pantomime

Christmas and New Year Closure

Date Thur 24 December Fri 25 December Time Half day closure from 1.30pm All day closure

Mon 28 December All day closure to Fri 1 January 2010 Mon 4 January 2010 Normal hours resume

WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
MONDAY
10.30 11.30 Hypnotherapy** Beginners computer courses (4 weeks)* The Monday Forum (topical discussion) The Bradbury weekly walk 1.00 2.00 Gentle exercise to music: all levels welcome* 1.30 4.00 Podiatry** 2.00 4.00 Scrabble 3.30 4.30 Yoga*

TUESDAY
10.30 11.30 Line dancing* 2.00 4.00 Bridge 2.00 3.30 Philosophy for life (alternate Tuesdays)

WEDNESDAY
10.30 11.30 Weekly discussion group 11.15 12.15 Bradbury bathers (swimming group) 2.00 3.30 Art class* Chess 2.30 3.30 French conversation

THURSDAY
10.00 1.30 Massage treatments** 2.00 4.00
Patchwork group

FRIDAY
10.30 11.30 Bradbury book club (first Friday of the month) 10.30 12.00 Art* 10.00 3.30 Massage treatments** 2.00 3.00 Tai Chi all levels welcome*

* 4 per session (members can choose to pay in advance for a block of 4 sessions for 12.00). Classes are to be taken consecutively as per the class register. **Please phone or drop-in to the centre for treatment prices. Booking in advance is required. Some activities are at full capacity. Please phone the office for further enquiries. About the centre: To come to the Bradbury Centre, you must be over 50 and able to come to the centre independently; able to mobilise independently (walking aids can be accommodated provided you are independent); able to use toilet facilities independently or without prompting; able to control the effects of any medical condition as well as manage any medication and be wholly responsible for it and be able to demonstrate an adequate level of awareness. Please note, we cannot offer one-to-one supervision or personal care.

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Raleigh house Centre

The Raleigh house Day Centre, New Malden, is a warm and friendly environment for those over 60 who are seeking friendship and daily activity. You can choose to attend for a full day or half day, for one or more days per week. Members who attend for a full day will be provided with a hot meal. Minibus transport is available to and from the centre for those who need it, every day except Wednesday, or we can help you access alternative transport. If youre not sure if the day centre is for you or not, why not try for the day? A taster day is free of charge, and you have no obligation to join, the choice is all yours. Look at our timetable and see what activities there are to suit you. For more information, please contact: Raleigh house, 14 Nelson Road, New Malden KT3 5EA Telephone: 020 8949 4244 Email: dcadmin@ageconcernkingston.org

Art and Craft Exhibition

In September, the Royal Borough of Kingston held its annual Art and Craft Exhibition at which both Raleigh House and Bradbury members exhibited pieces in a variety of categories including painting, drawing, photography, poetry, knitting and group work. Several members from both centres received prizes from the Mayor for their accomplished work congratulations!
Railway collage by Gladys Irvine and Leonora Reed, members of the Friday Book Club

upcoming outings and events at Raleigh house

Date Tuesday 15 December Time 1.152.15 1.002.00 1.002.00 1.002.00 1.002.00 Event Christmas Lunch and Esher Retired Persons Orchestra Christmas lunch and entertainment with Jenny Maynard Christmas lunch and Christmas show by Twig Singers from Hersham Christmas lunch with entertainment from Anne Golding Christmas lunch and sing-a-long with Karla

Christmas and New Year Closure

Date Fri 25 December Mon 28 December Tues 29 December Time All day closure All day closure Normal hours resume

Wednesday 16 December Thursday 17 December Friday 18 December Monday 21 December

All Christmas lunches 10.00 for three courses with wine and entertainment

WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY
9.30 11.15 REFREShMENTS 11.00 12.00
Skittles/snooker Gentle exercises New 2 you sale Quiz and word games Poetry

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

11.00 12.00
Scrabble Skittles/quoits Gentle exercises New 2 you sale Quiz and word games Art/craft Computer lessons

11.00 12.00
Card making Skittles/snooker Gentle exercises Quiz and word games Carpet bowls Reminiscence time

11.00 12.00
Sing-a-long with Dennis Skittles/quoits Gentle exercises Quiz and word games Darts and snooker Book reading Art/craft

11.00 12.00
Snooker Skittles/quoits Gentle exercises Quiz and word games Computer fun Art/craft Scrabble

12.00 LuNCh 1.15 Bingo Skittles/snooker Sybils project group Book reading 1.15 Bingo Scrabble Social eyes group Book reading 1.15 Bingo Scrabble Book club Crossword/board game 1.15 Bingo Raise a laugh Quiz and word games Book reading 1.15 Bingo Book reading Quiz and word games

2.00 REFREShMENTS

2.30 ANSWERS To QuIZ

About the centre: There is a daily charge that covers transport; a two course cooked meal, tea and coffee as well as most activities. To come to the Raleigh House day centre, you must be over 60, able to mobilise independently (walking aids can be accommodated provided you are independent); able to use toilet facilities independently or without prompting; able to control the effects of any medical condition as well as manage any medication and be wholly responsible for it and be able to demonstrate an adequate level of awareness. Please note, we cannot offer one-to-one supervision or personal care.
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Kingston upon Thames

making later life a greater life...

1999celebrating 10 years2009
What we do...
In Touch
Telephone support and befriending service

Home Response
Support at home to avoid a crisis

First Contact
Telephone information and advice

Raleigh House Day Centre

New Malden based service serving whole borough

Stay Well
Working with GPs to delay and avoid hospital admission

Active Living
Early intervention through exercise

Intergenerational
School based projects using the skills of older people

The Bradbury
Kingston based active age centre

Adult Protection & Safeguarding

Working to improve the lives of the isolated and vulnerable

Handyperson
Supporting independence through practical help at home

Lunch Clubs
In partnership with RBK in Chessington and New Malden

Advocacy & Advice

One to one specialist advice and problem solving

Volunteers
Over 140 volunteers support our work, and we need more! Contact us to find out how you can help and what we can offer you. T 020 8942 8256 E admin@ageconcernkingston.org www.ageconcernkingston.org