Older people's forums

The seniors’ forums are independent and run by seniors for seniors. They are non-political and anyone aged 50 or over interested in local, regional and national issues can get involved.

Forum members are volunteers and actively seek to improve the quality of life for seniors in their community.

There are seven seniors’ forums in East Sussex where you can get involved in service development and have your say:

Membership is free. Each forum is led by a committee of members. Some forums have formed special interest groups (such as transport, health and wellbeing) that reflect the concerns of their local members.

East Sussex Seniors' Association (ESSA)

ESSA is the umbrella body for the local forums above. It is an independent organisation which helps to provide a voice to people aged 50 or over. It helps them to influence decision-makers on issues which affect their everyday lives.

Getting involved

There are many ways you can get involved in shaping services, including:

  • working directly with older people in the local community to hear their issues and concerns
  • involvement in service and policy development
  • engagement in decision-making to create better local government

The forums currently need more volunteers to help with a range of activities, including:

  • helping to run coffee mornings
  • helping at events
  • producing newsletters
  • gathering views of seniors on issues that affect them
  • putting these views forward to policy makers and service providers

If you want to get involved, please contact:

Sue Dunkley, Equality and Inclusion Officer
Phone: 07783 847 944
Email: ASC Equality Team

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