Older People’s Champion Here To Fight Your Corner

From the London Borough of Richmond Upon Thames:

Elderly people in Richmond now have a dedicated ‘Older Peoples’ Champion’’ who is a phone call away and ready to fight the corner of those who are the most vulnerable.

Veteran cyclist and entrepreneur Cllr Brian Marcel, will galvanise the views of older people, pledging to represent their interests at the highest levels of local decision making.

Cllr Marcel will act as an ambassador for older residents living in the borough. His role is to recognise and value the contribution they make, promote opportunities for them to get out and about and keep healthy and active and raise awareness of all the services available. Over the next year, he will meet with older residents, work with local partners and be the public face of the Council with regards to specific activities aimed at combating isolation.

He has already stated his first top priority is to support older people become more technologically minded, particularly those who are house bound. The newly elected East Sheen Councillor’s vision is for older people to use digital technology to meet new people, develop interests and hobbies, and break down the barriers that lead to some elderly people feeling lonely and isolated.

“For many people, getting old can mean your world shrinks. I believe that using new technology can help expand their horizons. There’s a whole network of elderly people out there who can potentially talk to one another for free online, play online games together, share interests, and develop a really active social life.” said the Older People’s Champion.

“The cornerstone of my work is to combat loneliness and isolation. I will work closely with the Cabinet Member for Adult Services to ensure that the elderly people of this borough will not be forgotten. I am a phone call away, my door is always open, and I am ready to fight the corner of any older person who needs my help.”

The keen golfer made his mark in the former Soviet bloc in the late 80s. Having spotted an untapped region where entrepreneurs worked for state-run companies. Cllr Marcel supported them to set up businesses with shares and finance and guided them with best business practices. Today his business is number one in the region.

“Entrepreneurialism is very important to me. Whenever I can I try and work with young people to get them started up in the business world. I deliver lectures at universities, and I’m on hand to give help and advice whenever possible.” the Richmond resident of 32 years added.

To contact Cllr Marcel call 020 8878 9688 or alternatively email: Cllr.BMarcel@richmond.gov.uk