Older residents in Reading want clearer action and better publicity for the Older People's Working Group (OPWG).
Members warned they do not want the OPWG to become a "talking shop" and urged the council to show what it has actually achieved.
They suggested targeted publicity at places older people visit - the Museum of English Rural Life, Broad Street Mall, local clubs, leisure centres, supermarkets, community noticeboards, Family Hubs and GP surgeries. Councillor Andrew Hornsby-Smith named the South Reading Community Hub, Dee Park Community Building, Sun Street Community Hub and Southcote Family Hub.
Many groups, including faith groups, have lost contact over the years. "We need to reconnect with those groups somehow, using the council's correspondence."
There was also a demand for evidence that meetings lead to change. "We need to prove what we discuss has action. We don't want to be just a talking shop. We want people to say yes, we've achieved it, or sorry, we've failed for whatever reason."
Some members said the name might put people off. One 60‑year‑old said she was "really anti-ageist" and suggested renaming it "Mature Residents" because 60‑plus groups can seem to want people "to play bingo and vegetate". She also said publicity should mention meetings are hybrid.
Cllr Paul Gittings, the chair, thanked members for their "really valuable feedback" but said it's hard to sum up everything the group has achieved. Founded in 2013, it has "had some really good speakers" and "helped shape policy". He called Older Persons Day a "very big achievement" and hopes to "attract some new blood".
The discussion took place in the council chamber on Friday, April 10. Members were told there are 1,637 people with dementia in Reading, which will pass 2,000 by 2030.
To get involved email OPWG@reading.gov.uk.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
