Local event empowers older residents to stay safe and independent
Darren Guy commends Road Victim Support NI & Donegal and the PSNI for delivering actionable local safeguarding advice
Older residents from across the district gathered in Sion Mills recently for “Staying Safe, Staying Independent”, a free day of road safety and scam awareness organised by Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) for people aged 65 and over.
The morning session, 65+ Safer Journeys, was delivered by Road Victim Support Northern Ireland, Donegal (RVSNID), and is an adaptation of the charity’s Drive to Arrive road safety education programme.
A panel of local professionals spoke about the importance of regular eye checks, knowing what medication you are taking and how it can affect your driving, and keeping flexible and mobile for driving, including some tips for reducing stress. Practical advice on how to stay safe on the road was discussed, and Easilink Community Transport outlined the transport options available to help people keep their independence.
A volunteer from RVSNID also shared the devastating experience of a local person who had lost a loved one in a road traffic collision.
The group heard that, according to the latest PSNI figures, 11 people aged 65 and over have lost their lives on Northern Ireland’s roads this year, including five drivers, four pedestrians, one passenger and one other road user.
In the afternoon, neighbourhood officers from Derry and Strabane PSNI led a scam awareness session. Officers shared advice on spotting scams and staying safe online and from suspect or bogus callers. They also checked phones and tablets for those who brought them along and gave practical crime prevention advice.
Darren Guy, Chair of Derry and Strabane PCSP, said: “Events like this show the value of working in partnership. The PCSP is committed to supporting initiatives that help older people feel safe, confident and independent in their own communities. By working with Road Victim Support Northern Ireland, Donegal and the Neighbourhood Team with Derry and Strabane PSNI, we were able to bring practical advice on driving and scam prevention to people in Sion Mills and across the district. I would like to thank everyone who made the day possible and everyone who came along.”
Debbie Mullan, Chair of RVSNID, said: “Growing older should not mean losing your independence. Our 65+ Safer Journeys programme is about empowering older people with the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to continue travelling safely.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, regardless of age. As a family-led charity founded by those bereaved through road traffic collisions, we understand the devastating and lifelong impact that these tragedies have on families. Through education, awareness and open conversations, we hope to prevent further tragedies while supporting older people to remain safe, confident and independent for as long as possible.
“We were delighted with the response to the programme and the willingness of everyone to participate, share experiences and ask questions. It reinforces just how important these conversations are.”
Sergeant Maggie Harkin of the Strabane Neighbourhood Policing Team, PSNI, said: “We were delighted to take part in what was such an important and worthwhile event. Working together with partners in the one space, providing the most up-to-date information on issues that have an effect on everyday living, is crucial.
“We look forward to future events across the Derry City & Strabane District, and we thank everyone who took part and supported this event in Sion Mills.”
The PCSP thanked all the speakers, Road Victim Support Northern Ireland, Donegal, Easilink Community Transport, Derry and Strabane PSNI, the staff at The Bog Hall, and everyone who came along on the day.