Trustees of the West Lothian 50+ Network welcomed Fiona Hyslop MSP to their Network’s members’ hub.
The MSP for Linlithgow was in Bathgate recently to meet 50+ Network trustees to find out what the Network offers and to explore ways in which she might support their work.
Ms Hyslop visited the Network’s premises located on Bathgate’s main shopping street to see at first-hand how the Network supports loneliness in older people by providing a wide range of social activities.
The detrimental effects of social isolation on the elderly are well-documented, and West Lothian 50+ Network has been highly commended by Age Scotland for the work that they do to engage older people, providing them with activities which support physical and mental well-being whilst offering the chance to meet new people and make new friends.
Ms Hyslop was interested to hear how the Network’s membership has increased dramatically since the end of the Covid pandemic, reaching higher membership numbers than ever previously seen in its almost 30-year history. She heard how the Network helps to give older people a sense of purpose, often called into question after retirement, bereavement or when families spread their wings, and how, through activities which keep mind and body active, members meet new friends and companions.
Speaking for the group, Sue Bedford-Visser said: “Fiona was very interested to hear about the community benefit of the Network and how it is funded. As a volunteer led organisation, we very much make things happen for ourselves, with many of our activities being run by volunteer members for other members. We calculated that in 2022 our volunteers gave some 11,885 hours of their time, which if valued only at the Living Wage equates to some £129,000. However, as the organisation grows, we are hugely grateful for the continuing confidence of our external funders who help support our premises, staff and activities.”
“I should add that Fiona’s role as Deputy Convener for the Scottish Parliament’s Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee also led to a fair bit of discussion about the current challenges of local public transport. Many of our members have been impacted negatively by the poor local bus service, as well as the recent council removal of the train concession. It was good to exchange view on this, to hear from Fiona that the Network is well regarded in the community, and to have gained another champion for what we do”.
Ms Hyslop said: “People can become socially isolated for various reasons, for example on the death of a spouse or close friend, and it was good to see how the West Lothian 50+ Network are addressing this issue with their prescription for activity, companionship and fun with such a fantastic range and number of activities, clubs and groups”.
Anyone aged over 50 living in the West Lothian area is eligible to join the West Lothian 50+ Network. To find out more phone 01506 635510, visit their website at https://westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or find them on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/WestLothian50PlusNetwork
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