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Seniors’ forum covers Toothill moves closer to spending lottery money
housing & health Despite suggestions in the local media, based on rumour and unnamed sources, that Toothill is riven with com-
Swindon Older People’s Forum dis- munity disputes about how a £1 million Big Local lottery grant is to be spent, the fact is that a decision-making
cusses Housing options for Older structure is now in place to ensure the money can be spent for the benefit of the whole area.
People on 16 April, 1pm to 4pm, The Lottery announced in August trust which will release funds for the partnership group means there
at Gorse Hill Community Centre, 2010 that Toothill and another 149 projects. is a decision-making body to work
Chapel Street, SN2 8DA. communities around Britain would The Toothill Big Local Steering with all residents, as required by the
Jo Osorio will also be available to each receive £1 million to be put Committee set up in late 2010 Big Local Trust.
talk about the changes in the NHS, towards community development continues to meet as an open forum “There is a determination to re-
with particular reference to the pa- projects over a ten year period. Since for discussions about what the area spond to the main themes that are
tients’ watchdog Healthwatch then two Big Local festivals have needs, with sub-groups to develop emerging: the need to give young
Transport is available for those been organised in conjunction with applications for funding. people in Toothill a better chance to
with mobility problems. Contact Dave Toothill Primary School, many con- Big Local representative Helen succeed, and to break through the
Brown: [email protected] sultation meetings have taken place, Garforth said: “It’s been a long time in sense of isolation felt by quite a few
or 01793 612037 for details. as well as short term projects such as development but it feels like a corner people living in the area.”
www.sopf.btck.co.uk holiday play schemes, a tea dance for has been turned. The formation of www.toothillbiglocal.co.uk
But you don’t look sick! seniors in the area and the creation
of a long poem about Toothill by
Swindon Foggy’s ‘invisible illness’ Sup- youngsters from four schools. Toothill seniors to launch 50 Shades club
port raises awareness and provides These were funded by extra lot- Following the March Link report that the Good Companions, West Swindon’s
help to people suffering from arthritic tery money as part of a consultation longest running community group, closed down because of falling numbers,
and rheumatic conditions, chronic period whilst community groups a new social group for older people living in the area is being launched.
fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, giant discussed and agreed a decision Organisers are planning to call it the 50 Shades club, to reflect the changing
cell arteritis, irritable bowel syndrome, making structure. There is now a Big lives of its members and the different tints in their hair.
ME, peripheral neuropathy, polymy- Local Partnership Group made up of Their first meeting takes place on Monday 15 April, 2pm to 4pm, at Toothill
algia rheumatica, seasonal affective 11 people with the majority living in Community Centre.
disorder and trigeminal neuralgia. Toothill. This will consider funding Organisers want members to contribute ideas on what kind of activities
If you’re affected by any of these applications for projects based on should take place. The club will provide the opportunity to meet new friends,
conditions, or know somebody who community benefit criteria. play cards, bingo and board games, but there is also potential for dances, guest
is, contact Deb Cooke about the next It is now drawing up an action plan speakers and seated exercises. Suggestions will be welcomed.
group meeting: deb.cooke@butyou- based on all the consultation that has The first meeting is free then subscriptions will be £1 per week inclusive of
dontlooksick.co.uk been going on and setting spending refreshments. Turn up and join in or call John East on 01793 871909 or mail:
www.butyoudontlooksick.co.uk priorities for the national Big Local [email protected] for information.

8 swindonlink.com • April 2013

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