University praises old people project

The University of Salford has praised the Council’s Partnerships for Older People Project (POPPs).

University officials believe that similar schemes in other local authorities should be judged against the council project, which aims to reach out to older people who are struggling to stay independent by offering them more community involvement.

The scheme was evaluated by the University and selected by the POPPs National Evaluation Team for further scrutiny because of the lessons which can be learned nationally

"Thus far, the findings are overwhelmingly positive in terms of improved quality of life, access to services and local activities," said Councillor Greg Couzens.

Councillor Pauline Maguire, Cabinet Member for older people finished off by saying “I am delighted with the success that POPPs has been in Rochdale so far. Since the end of August we have commissioned 31 new services & activities including IT classes, carers support groups, a volunteer driver scheme and much more. It is vital that we provide a flexible service to help older people stay independent.

"We will be looking into developing POPPs even further over the next few years and building on what has worked well so far."