A Norwich charity is helping the elderly swap slippers to stop falls
Age UK Norwich slipper exchange at Harford Community Centre, Norwich. Julie Richardson and Hazel Bowen with their new slippers. Photo : Steve Adams - Credit: Steve Adams
A slipper exchange campaign hoping to cut the number of elderly people experiencing falls this Christmas is under way.
Age UK Norwich slipper exchange at Harford Community Centre, Norwich. Photo : Steve Adams - Credit: Steve Adams
Encouraging people to swap their old slippers for a new comfortable pair, Age UK Norwich launched the scheme last month after a high number of falls are reportedly caused by 'ill-fitting footwear'.
Aiming to keep people with loved ones, rather than spending the festive season in hospital, an event yesterday at Harford Community Centre, on Peterkin Road, was one of many sessions in the city.
Bob Russell, Age UK Norwich's community outreach manager, said: 'The main reasons older people go into hospital in the winter is through falls... One lady who came to us at Cadge Road had recently had a fall and the paramedic who called on her commented on the worn state of her slippers.'
The scheme is supported by a handful of health campaigners. It is funded by Health Norwich, a Norwich City Council initiative and is in partnership with Norfolk County Council and the Norwich Older People's Forum.
Mr Russell, added: 'So our message to older people is, come and see us, bring your old slippers and don't risk spending Christmas in Hospital this year.'
Over the winter season, 10 events will take place across the city.
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The next event is on Tuesday, December 8, at the Phoenix Centre, on Mile Cross Road from 10am until midday and another is organized for Thursday, November 17 from 10am until midday at the Baptist Church, on Witard Road.
- If you have a news story about preparing for winter, email jemma.walker@archant.co.uk
