Too old to care?

Or are you concerned or worried about what the government is doing that affects you and older people? Does having a local MP matter? What do MPs do, anyway? What can your newly elected Lib Dem MP do when there is a majority Labour government? Have you been affected by the end of the winter fuel allowance? Are you worried about what you will leave to your family when you die with the changes to IHT? What does your MP have to say about that?

Don't have a voice?

The Forum is holding a public meeting and its annual MP Question Time, starting at 10 a.m. on Friday, December 6th, with our local MP, John Milne.

This is your opportunity to have your voice, ask your MP questions, and let your MP know the strength of feeling on how the government and its policies affect you and others. Or, of course, you can not bother and hope that someone else tells him.

We also have Laura Robertson, NHS Sussex, to tell us what is currently happening NHS-wise, what we should know, and answer your questions. Are you worried about getting an appointment with your GP? Are there difficulties getting certain prescription drugs? Local pharmacies closing? If you have a specific question, let us know beforehand to ensure you get an answer.

Mobility scooters - friend or foe?

Do you have one? Are you thinking of buying one for yourself or a family member? Do you know someone who uses one? Are they safe or a hazard for pedestrians? Have you been hit by one when out shopping or walking? Are they insured in case they injure someone? Do you need a licence?

Is there any free local safety training for mobility scooters?

David Searle will be telling us all.

Who can attend?

Anyone aged 60+ who lives in the Horsham district or cares for someone who is. Anyone involved with, knowledgeable about, or interested in issues affecting local older people.

Our local MPs, HDC, WSCC, Neighbourhood, and Parish Councillors are valued supporters of our Forum and local older people and are always welcome. If they don't already, they need to know what older people are concerned about and consider what can and needs to be done.

When, where and how much?

It's free to attend. It starts at 10 a.m. on Friday, December 6th, 2024, and ends at approximately 12.30 p.m.

Due to the number of people who want to attend, the venue will be Brighton Road Baptist Church, Brighton Road, Horsham RH13 5BD.

Please let us know you are attending so we know the venue will be large enough. Email hdopforum@gmail.com or through Contact on our website

 You can also participate via Zoom (please request the joining information before the meeting, as above).

Directions on how to get to the church.

Parking.   Limited parking is available in the church car park, accessed from New Street. There is also a pay-and-display car park in New Street, virtually opposite the church car park. Payment via machine is required every day.

 Free parking is available a shortish walk away in Bennetts Field.

Community Transport West Sussex may be able to assist you in attending.

A handy downloadable Horsham Bus Map and timetables can be found here.

What will you gain by attending?

Meet your new MP, tell him what you think, and find out what he thinks about the issues that affect you and your family. Have your voice heard!

Meeting others in a warm, safe, older person-friendly environment with complimentary tea and coffee.

Come and find out for yourself. You will be welcomed, and we guarantee you will learn something new.