Communication and Information Sharing Workshop

Communication and Information Workshop

Appropriate and age-friendly distribution of information

We would like to invite you to an informal workshop event where we intend to do a deep dive into how we improve our practice and approaches in relation to getting information out to our older residents. (This refers to adults over 50 years old in Middlesbrough)

For context: Age Friendly Middlesbrough is a strategic priority for Middlesbrough Council which includes 8 domains or aspects of life, which are important for older people to activity age in their community or place of choice. Age-friendly Middlesbrough | Middlesbrough Council

Age-friendly communities prioritise accessible communication and information to ensure older adults can actively participate in society and maintain their well-being. This involves providing information in various formats, using clear and simple language, and ensuring it reaches older adults through familiar channels.

In Middlesbrough there are lots of activities and support services for older people, but many older people are unaware and are not benefitting from the support on offer, due to either not being online or not connected to any Service, group or network, where they could be informed about what is available. Much of ours and our Stakeholders promotion relies on social media and ‘word of mouth’ or ad hoc opportunity for leaflet drops in appropriate venues.

To address this issue, we want to bring together a wide range of professionals including Service Providers, Staff, Residents and Community Leaders, to get together in a space where we can discuss the Challenges of getting information out to older people to brainstorm and share creative ideas of how to address this issue.

Join us for a fun and interactive session where we will explore various techniques for effective communication and sharing information as well as:-

· learning more about what older people can access,

· sharing suggestions on how to get information out to older residents,

· sharing creative ideas for communication,

· sharing learning on how we address communication barriers,

· Sharing service information (resource table will be available)

Light Lunch will be provided and will include vegetarian options

Please let Julie Mcgee know of there are any other dietry requirements

Julie_mcgee@middlesbrough.gov.uk

Agenda to follow

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Please see some helpful pre workshop reading below

Key Aspects of Age-Friendly Communication and Information:

• Accessibility:

Information should be available in multiple formats (e.g., large print, audio, digital, and physical) and languages to cater to diverse needs and preferences.

• Clarity and Simplicity:

Age-friendly communication uses clear, concise language, avoiding jargon and complex sentence structures.

• Familiar Channels:

Information should be disseminated through channels that older adults are comfortable with, such as traditional media (print, radio), community hub and libraries, and direct contact (phone calls, in-person).

• Inclusivity:

Actively involve older adults in the planning and implementation of communication strategies to ensure their perspectives are considered.

• Digital Inclusion:

While promoting digital access, ensure that those who prefer or require alternative methods are not excluded.

• Breaking Down Barriers:

Effective communication can help combat ageism, promote positive attitudes towards older adults, and foster intergenerational connections.

• Community Engagement:

Encouraging active participation in community life through accessible information about events, services, and activities.

• Partnerships:

Collaboration between organisations, community groups, and older adults is crucial for developing effective communication strategies.

Examples of Age-Friendly Communication Practices:

• Public Announcements:

Using clear and simple language on public announcements.

• Community Events:

Providing information about events in accessible formats and locations, including community hubs and libraries.

• Health Information:

Ensuring that health information is available in multiple formats and that healthcare professionals communicate clearly with older patients.

• Digital Inclusion Programs:

Providing training and support to help older adults navigate the digital world.

• Intergenerational Programs:

Facilitating communication and understanding between different generations through shared activities and events.