Visited Sylvia Lawla Court – a residential supported block for older residents. Absolutely lovely little place – brilliantly situated for the shops and transport of Wood Green and clearly well run. And a very happy bunch they were.

Definitely cross about those on the breadline with a fixed income state pension and nothing else facing rocketing prices – pushing some into financial difficulty. Other key issues were about the time having to wait for ambulances as only two hour slots given – meaning a resident has to wait in the hall downstairs for that length of time. Will see if Health Service amenable to giving a ring say 15 minutes before arrival? Just a thought!

My favourite subject – foot care for the elderly. If you are ill enough – it’s free on the NHS – but otherwise it costs an arm and a leg. And overgrown nails and hard skin can mean having to stay in because the pain of walking is too much.

The biggest issue was really the paving virtually opposite the block – where two residents have fallen and hurt themselves (including having to go to hospital) and despite being reported to Haringey Council by the management – nothing has been done. So – on the case! There are currently building works where the uneven paving is – but it simply cannot be left until building work is finished – far too dangerous for older people many of whom have aided walking with frames or sticks.

Very enjoyable coffee morning! And as I say – a happy group of people – a real pleasure.