“Together we’ll make a difference”

SHOUT are an independent non party political organisation that was set up as part of the Strategy For Older People in Wales. The aim of Strategy is to empower people to take control of their own lives by putting people over the age of 50 at the centre of all decisions made that would concern them. SHOUT were set up as part of the response made by partners in Bridgend.

“More and more, SHOUT are providing a stronger and effective voice in society”

It is a county wide initiative that was set up with the support of a variety of local statutory and voluntary agencies. Its membership is made up entirely of people over 50 and its main aim is to raise any issue of concern that is brought to its attention via forums or other means. Ultimately this develops into positive change at a local, regional or national level.

SHOUT are also currently developing their role amongst local planning teams. So are endeavoring to ensure that the views of older people are aired in a variety of different areas including the development of services and planning.

If you have any specific issues that you feel SHOUT could be a part of finding the solution, please contact us today.

To give you a flavour, recent high profile issues addressed include the concerns around the loss of the local post offices and card accounts, Welsh Assembly Government U-turn on free home care for the disabled, medicine management, regeneration of Maesteg and the proposed changes to acute health care services.

Future plans to reach a wider community include the production of the newsletter to allow those who are unable to attend meetings to become involved. Work has also started with those living in sheltered accommodation, residential nursing accommodation and those living in minority communities.

Development of new forums will happen in the near future. If you would like SHOUT in your area, again contact us today on 01656 810400 and ask for Mo.

Currently, meetings are held:-

Bridgend Forum – Evergreen Hall – Third Wednesday of every month at 10am

Llynfi Valley Forum –BAVO offices, Commercial Street Maesteg – First Tuesday of every month – 2pm

Porthcawl Forum – Trinity Church – First Friday of every month – 2pm

Ogmore Valley Forum – Revolving Venue - Last Monday of the Month (contact Kath Davies for details of next meeting 01656 841479)

Anyone is welcome to attend any of the meetings at any time, but where possible you are urged to meet at your local forum. You can obtain further information by speaking to Mo Williams– Forum Development Officer on 01656 810400.

SHOUT Flyer

Newsletter editions

June 2007