Over 120 older people got involved in a conference at Dumfries House recently.

They were taking part in the conference aimed at finding out ‘What Matters To You?’.

Guests enjoyed getting to know each other and listening to guest speakers, East Ayrshire Council Chief Executive Eddie Fraser and Councillor Jim McMahon.

Cumnock Chronicle: The conference at Dumfries House.The conference at Dumfries House. (Image: East Ayrshire Council)

Conversations were had about what matters to the older population in the area, in terms of community, health and social lives.

Important discussions also took place about how to ensure that older people continue to have a voice and the chance to influence decisions made by authorities and governing bodies about the services and support that is available to them.

The day was rounded off with a fantastic performance from Elvis, aka John Reid, and everyone enjoyed the music and dancing.

Guests on the day came from care homes, supported accommodation, Vibrant Communities, Age Concern, East Ayrshire Advocacy Services, Busy Bees Coalfield Community Transport, Ayrshire Independent Living Network, Netherthird and Craigens Thursday Group, Sensory Impairment Support Group, RNIB, Carers Centre, CVO and East Ayrshire Council.

Cumnock Chronicle: The conference at Dumfries House.The conference at Dumfries House. (Image: East Ayrshire Council)

All those involved took away important information and advice on how to further support older people.

Councillor Jim McMahon, Spokesperson for Housing, Transport and Communities, said: “As well as being a great day out, this conference gives our older people the opportunity to talk about and tell us what’s really important to them.

"All of the services and groups who were there on the day will have taken away valuable information that will help them when they’re planning and delivering services for our older population in the future.

"Thanks to everyone who took part.”

The conference was organised by East Ayrshire Vibrant Communities and supported and guided by East Ayrshire Advocacy Services, Coalfield Community Buses, Age Concern and representatives from older people’s services and volunteering.