“I've never had a humble opinion. If you've got an opinion, why be humble about it?” – Joan baez
Whether you are an older person or group trying to get your voice heard or an organisation or service trying to engage with citizens, the following websites and contact details could be really helpful.
There is a consultation section which details all the current consultations underway.
Website: new.wales.gov.uk
Address: Welsh Assembly Government, Cardiff Bay, CF99 1NA
Phone: 0845 010 3300 (English) or 0845 010 4400 (Welsh)
This website aims to help people shape their cities, towns and communities: Website: www.communityplanning.net
This is a great website providing practical information on involving people:
Website: www.peopleandparticipation.net
(Local Community Councillor, Town Councillor, County Borough Councillor, Assembly Member). You can contact them either in person, on the phone, by writing a letter or by email. For further information contact your Local Authority or use the following:
Website: www.parliament.uk
House of Commons switchboard: 020 7219 3000
The role involves being a champion for older people and ensuring that the interests of older people in Wales, who are aged 60 and over, are safeguarded and promoted. The Commission will be a source of information, advocacy and support for older people in Wales.
Website: www.olderpeoplewales.com
Phone: 02920 221022
Petitions to the Prime Minister can be sent by post or delivered to Number 10 Downing Street in person. You can create and sign petitions on the following website, giving you the opportunity to reach a wider audience: petitions.pm.gov.uk
This is the initative that is supporting services and authorities to put citizens at the centre of public services.
Website: new.wales.gov.uk
Age Concern is a national charity working to improve the lives of older people. It has local offices throughout Wales which can provide you with all kinds of advice, support and information.
Website: www.accymru.org.uk
Phone: 029 2043 1555
Help the Aged in Wales works with older people, older people's forums, decision-makers and service providers to make sure that the specific needs of older people in Wales are recognised and addressed.
Website: www.helptheaged.org.uk
Phone: 02920 346550
Better Government for Older People provides a dialogue between policy makers, practitioners and older people.
Website: www.bgop.org.uk
Phone 020 7553 6530
The Citizens Advice service helps people resolve their legal, money and other problems by providing free information and advice from over 3,000 locations, and by influencing policymakers.
Website - www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Participation Cymru aims to provide support, information and training around public engagement and participation including consultation and facilitation skills
Website: www.wcva.org.uk/policy
U3A stands for the University of the Third Age, which is a self-help organisation for people no longer in full time employment providing educational, creative and leisure opportunities in a friendly environment. Website: www.u3a.org.uk
Phone: 020 8466 6139
This is a Welsh Assembly programme to tackle deprivation in Wales. There is a Communities First Support Network (CFSN) to provide support for the Communities First Programme.
Website: www.communitiesfirst.info
Phone: 02920 556191 - Free phone Helpline 0800 587 8898
Aims to support the development of Intergenerational Practice throughout Wales, promoting community development and reducing social exclusion.
Website: www.ccip.org.uk
Phone: 01443 482372 - Fax: 01443 483799