Nottinghamshire County Council urges businesses across the Newark area to make an age-friendly pledge

Organisations and businesses across the Newark area are being encouraged to join a campaign which aims to assure older and disabled shoppers that they’ll always have a welcoming place to have a sit down when out and about.

More than 300 businesses and community organisations across the county have already made a commitment to make their shops and buildings more age-friendly by displaying a ‘We are Age Friendly' sticker.

This includes around 35 organisations in the Newark and Sherwood area, such as Art of Flowers and Newark Alterations in Newark, as well as The Co-op in Southwell.

Meanwhile in Bingham, organisations who are signed up include Boots, Chic Boutique and The Dogstrust.

Gordon Wheeler, the county council’s deputy cabinet member for communities and public health, said: “We applaud those businesses which are providing reassurance to older people and people with a disability or chronic illness that they will be offered a seat when they go inside, should they need to rest. Many shops will also offer a drink and, if accessible, use of their toilet facilities.

"We are passionate about helping older people stay independent and connected to their communities. It is so important for people’s mental health and helps reduce the risk of feeling lonely and isolated.”

One organisation already signed up is The Nottingham, including its branch in Newark.

Jennie Cooper is the Worksop branch manager of the building society and explains why signing up to this scheme is a simple, yet effective way of showing the community that they care.

She said: "We are incredibly proud to support this campaign. All of our eight branches across the county are a welcoming place for people to pop in for a place to rest, catch their breath, or even just have a friendly chat.

"We understand there may be those who find shopping trips a bit daunting at times, so the simple gesture of providing a seat and a friendly face can make a world of difference to someone.

"We would encourage other Nottinghamshire businesses and organisations to sign up to 'take a seat' if they haven't done already.”

Further information about the campaign, including which businesses are taking part and how to sign up for free, can be found on the Nottinghamshire County Council website.