Published: Wednesday, 17th February, 2010 8:00am

Hot topics at older people's meeting

by Annabel Williams

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PREVENTING strokes and the extension of a bus route were just two of the varied topics discussed at the latest meeting of a group for older people.

Members of the 50 PLUS+ group heard from the Stroke Association's Clare Chapman, a family and carer support co-ordinator, who spoke of the help available to sufferers and their carers.

The group, which meets at St Barnabas Hall in Grove Road, Emmer Green, was hosted by Age Concern Berkshire chairman Geoff Chivers and Peppard ward councillor, Mark Ralph.

There was news of how the 28 bus route has been extended to Courtenay Drive after the southbound 24 bus loop serving the road had been withdrawn by Reading Buses.

Caversham Neighbourhood Police Team officer Sgt Rob Pitman told how crime is down overall in Caversham and Emmer Green, and urged people to attend the relaunch of the North and West Caversham Neighbourhood Action Group.

Cllr Ralph spoke of the Buddy Scheme, launched for older residents last July to identify safety and security or health and wellbeing issues and requested formation of a small 'working group to discuss ways to increase uptake and overcome any obstacles to participation.

Group founder Cllr Ralph said: "I'm really pleased, we try to address topical subjects of interest and we are committed to trying to find solutions to any issues raised."

To register to receive details of the next 50 PLUS + meeting, contact Marveta Hinds at Age Concern Berkshire on 0118 959 4242.