NEWCASTLE’S Slieve Donard Hotel was the venue last week for a special event aimed at informing elderly and vulnerable people about crime prevention measures during and after the festive season.
The winter warmer event was organised by the Down District Policing Partnership (DDPP) in conjunction with Down District Community Safety Partnership
Over 130 people from across the district took part, learning about practical crime prevention steps they can take before, during and after the festive season.
The Newcastle event also highlighted the benefits people are entitled to such as rates relief, warm home grants, a lone pensioner allowance and help with housing benefit.
DDPP chairman, Councillor William Dick, said it was great to see such a large turnout at the inaugural winter warmer event.
He continued: “It’s important to provide people with practical tips on how they can keep themselves and their homes safe and secure before during and after this festive season.
“I’m also pleased that 16 agencies including, Good Morning Down, the Citizens Advice Bureau and the Down Secured Project have set up information points to bring their services directly to the people of the district.”
Councillor Mickey Coogan, the chairman of the district’s Community Safety Partnership, said the well organised and very well attended event answered a lot of the questions people have in relation to safety and benefits.
He added: “If elderly and vulnerable people do face difficulty over the winter months I would strongly encourage them to contact their local councillor or some of the agencies represented at last week’s event. Help is always available.”
Hilary Doherty, an outreach officer with the A2B organisation, said the Newcastle event was a great opportunity for people in the Down area to find out more about the benefits that are available to them.
“Everyone’s thoughts are turning to food and fuel bills so it is important to check your benefits in case you are missing out,” she added.