Starbeck Library has joined two others in the region that will be giving free slippers to elderly people throughout April.

North Yorkshire Library Service is working with North Yorkshire Sport to support older people in living in their own homes for longer.

The offer aims to help to prevent slips, trips and falls.

Starbeck Library, alongside Malton and Selby, will hold Slipper Socials at which older people can pick up free anti-slip slippers.

The slippers have rubber soles and are wide fitting to make it easier for people with restricted mobility to get them on and off.

They also have a good Velcro fastener so they will not slip off.

Louise Wallace, North Yorkshire’s Director of Public Health, said:

“For many older people, who may be mentally fit but physically frail, having a fall can lead to a loss of independence.

“Research has shown that one of the most common causes of falls by older people is loose, worn or backless slippers.”

The Starbeck Library slipper social event will be on Thursday 21st April from 10am to 12pm.

Joining NY Sport will be the Harrogate Easier Living Project, which supports older people in Harrogate district in living independently.

Starbeck Library will be hosting a slipper social next month.

At the same time as picking up a new pair of slippers, visitors will be able to learn about or try age-appropriate exercises, supervised by NY Sport, to help them to stay active and healthy.

They’ll also receive a free Get Moving activity pack and information on local social groups and clubs.

Simon Pierce, Health and Wellbeing Manager for North Yorkshire Sport, said:

“We are pleased to support these events and promote the benefits of keeping physically active throughout life.

“We look forward to discussing and demonstrating how exercises and activities can be adapted to be inclusive for everyone, and we will provide activity packs to help get people started.”

Chrys Mellor, Library Service General Manager, said:

“Libraries are always looking to support older people in remaining independent and active. This latest initiative will help people avoid falls, and help reduce pressure on health and emergency services.

“At the same time, the free slippers social events are a great way for people to find out about other valuable services and access a variety of information and advice within their community.

“Older people can drop in at any time during the events and free refreshments will be available. If we run out of some sizes, we will do our best to get more and get them to people after the event.”

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