The safety of older people in Potters Bar was at the top of an agenda for a free drop-in session which took place in the town.

Over 30 people attended the safety, help and advice seminar at The Wyllyotts Theatre, which was attended by representatives from Hertsmere Borough Council, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue, Hertfordshire Police, Trading Standards, MIND, the Alzheimer’s Society and Age UK.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: An older people's safety event in Potters Bar.An older people's safety event in Potters Bar. (Image: HBC)

Speakers visited residents at their table and stalls were set up for people to visit to discuss issues in more detail. Participants also received free refreshments and a hot lunch.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: An older people's safety event in Potters Bar.An older people's safety event in Potters Bar. (Image: HBC)

Cllr Pervez Choudhury, portfolio holder for community safety at HBC, said: “I am delighted so many local people attended the event, which was set up to help our older community feel safer.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: An older people's safety event in Potters Bar.An older people's safety event in Potters Bar. (Image: HBC)

"At the event, local residents were able to find out about the support, advice and help available within the local community, as well as receive advice on safety inside and outside the home, scams and how to avoid them; and health and wellbeing advice to help live healthier, independent lives.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: An older people's safety event in Potters Bar.An older people's safety event in Potters Bar. (Image: HBC)

“I'd like to thank all the residents who attended as well as the local organisations who helped to make this event such a success. Special thanks also goes to Herts Independent Living Service for providing a delicious and healthy hot meal to all the participants.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: An older people's safety event in Potters Bar.An older people's safety event in Potters Bar. (Image: HBC)

"We know that loneliness has been a serious issue for many people during the pandemic, so it was great to see people together talking and laughing."

Local residents who attended said the event was 'so well planned and managed, and it was a real pleasure to be there'. Another said the event was 'helpful and enjoyable' whilst another attendee said they 'met some lovely people and learned so much from the many representatives there'.

To find out more about community safety in Hertsmere visit: www.hertsmere.gov.uk/communitysafety