Political opinion with Kieran Mullan MP: Bringing the community together to live well and age well

How we think about ageing is changing. Many people are now enjoying longer, healthier lives, with more opportunities to stay active, connected and independent well into later life. While ageing can bring new challenges, it can also be an exciting stage of life filled with opportunities to learn, contribute and make the most of retirement, family and community.

 One of the greatest strengths of our area is the network of organisations, volunteers and professionals who help residents live well as they age. That is why I am delighted to be organising the Live Well Age Well Fair, with support from Rother District Council, Rother Voluntary Action and the De La Warr Pavilion.

 The fair will take place at the De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill, on Wednesday 30 September, from 11am to 3pm. It will bring together expert speakers, local organisations and community groups to showcase the wide range of support, services and opportunities available across the area.

 The event is aimed particularly at people aged 55 and over, but families, carers and residents of all ages are welcome. Whether you are planning for retirement, supporting a loved one, looking for ways to stay active, or simply curious about what is available locally, there will be something for everyone.

 We are especially pleased to welcome two outstanding speakers. Dr Xand van Tulleken, the well-known doctor and broadcaster from BBC programmes including Operation Ouch!, will share insights on prevention and healthy living. His forthcoming book, Make Me Well, explores what evidence-based wellbeing advice really works.

 Joining him will be Dr Elena Mucci, Consultant Physician and Geriatrician, who specialises in the care of older people and is passionate about helping people maintain independence, wellbeing and quality of life. She will be delivering a talk on “How to improve your memory: a talk you will never forget!”.

 Visitors will be able to explore a wide variety of exhibitors covering health and wellbeing, housing, retirement living, home adaptations, care and support services, unpaid carer support, physical activity programmes and social care. Travel and leisure providers, adult learning organisations, clubs, cultural groups and volunteering organisations will also be on hand to showcase opportunities to stay connected and engaged.

 Practical advice will be available on benefits, financial support, banking, energy efficiency and future planning. Sussex Police will also provide a talk and guidance on fraud prevention, helping people protect themselves from increasingly sophisticated scams.

 Throughout the day there will be workshops, demonstrations, interactive activities and health checks, giving visitors opportunities to learn new skills, try new experiences and meet others in the community. A full programme will be published in advance.

 Importantly, this event is about celebrating later life as much as supporting people through its challenges. With more than 50 exhibitors, it will provide a one-stop shop for information, advice and inspiration.

The fair has been made possible through the generous support of sponsors including the Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner, Bexhill College, Southern Housing, Rother District, Council, Churchill Retirement Living and CrystalCare.

 The aim is simple: to celebrate positive ageing and ensure residents know about the many services, activities and opportunities available to help them stay healthy, independent and connected. I hope people from across Rother and beyond will join us for what promises to be an informative, enjoyable and inspiring day.