Positive Ageing group to work with council

Rotorua Lakes Council are calling for locals aged 50+ to be part of a group concerning older residents.

The Positive Ageing Rotorua group is being formed to provide an independent voice for seniors across the Rotorua district.

It will work with the council on issues that affect older people, with the aim of ensuring Rotorua is an age-friendly district.

Members of the district's older community were consulted about the group's role and how it should be established.

The group will contribute towards achieving the Rotorua 2030 vision by helping with the work of the council's People Portfolio, which is led by councillors Merepeka Raukawa-Tait and Mark Gould.

"The council wants to strengthen participation by seniors in council decision-making on behalf of the community," said Mrs Raukawa-Tait.

"An ageing population means council will need support, advice and advocacy by and for the district's older population.

"As we know, the number of older people is growing so it's very important to us that they have a voice and are able to have and encourage effective input into decision-making that affects their age-group now and in the future.

"Of course this is not the only way council will engage with this portion of our population but this is one, proactive way we can ensure we hear from those aged 50 and over."

Expressions of interest close at 10am on 10 July 2015. A maximum of 12 people will be selected for the Positive Ageing Rotorua group and shortlisted candidates will be interviewed.

For a position description and more details about Positive Ageing Rotorua and the selection process for the group go to rotorualakescouncil.nz-click on 'Our Council', then 'Consultation and Public Notices' and 'Positive Ageing'.