The City of Cockburn's commitment to the wellbeing of its ageing population has been recognised again.
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It was named the WA Age Friendly Local Government of the Year the 2022 WA Seniors Awards.
The LGA in Perth's south was selected for its commitment and support for seniors through the development of its Age Friendly Strategic Plan, the first of which was developed in 2008.
The plan was drawn up because the city has a higher than average proportion of people over 55. By 2026, nearly a quarter of its population will have reached that age.
The most recent accomplishment under the plan came during the COVID-19 state of emergency.
There was concern that members of the city's seniors centre - itself established under the plan - were in danger becoming isolated from their only social outlet.
Volunteers from the centre formed a friendship group for members that still operates, said head of community development and services Karoline Jamieson.
"It hosts an enthusiastic core group of participants including those who may otherwise have found it difficult to form social connections.
"These members now collaborate on weekly activities to prevent loneliness including community outings, catching up with one another for a cuppa and a chat, and giving each other a call. These connections have made all the difference," Ms Jamieson said.
Other accomplishments over the years have included:
- A public bus service established in Spearwood, Coolbellup and Cockburn Central
- Development of a public toilet map
- Establishment of a community men's shed
- Installation of more than 90 pieces of public exercise equipment
- Increased CoSafe security patrols and a surveillance cameras to create a safer community
- A CoHealth service to support people at risk of developing chronic disease
- Multiple annual information forums held at the seniors centre
- The annual Healthy Lifestyle Expo for people aged 55-plus held in conjunction with the cities of Melville and Fremantle.
The city is reviewing the Age Friendly Strategic Plan and will again seek community input.
The overall objective is to help ensure seniors in Cockburn feel valued, have opportunities for good health and active participation and a sense of security, inclusion and accessibility while they age in place.
To meet these needs, the Age-friendly Reference Group meets monthly to voice seniors' concerns, providing advice and exchanging information with the city.
It comprises:
- Residents of Cockburn who are seniors and/or a carer, or an advocate of a senior,
- People who works in the field of seniors either in a voluntary or paid capacity within the City of Cockburn.
The city supports the group by providing facilities for meetings, administrative support and updates on senior-specific issues and opportunities arising within the district.
Membership nominations are open. Those interested in joining should complete the online nomination form HERE.
