Thurrock Over Fifties Forum (TOFF)

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Project description

Thurrock Over Fifties Forum (TOFF) is a free impartial advice session held in local Learning Centre where visitors can get advice in relation to housing, benefits, funding, care and social activities.

Who is the service for?

Primarily aimed at older people but no one was turned away.

Intended outcomes

For service users to make informed choices in regard to their concerns and needs.

Were people who use services and carers and other key stakeholders involved in setting up this service?

Yes, working in partnership with the Papworth Trust, the Citizens Advice Bureau and Thurrock Over Fifties Forum members, many who are service users, it was highlighted there was unmet need.

Has the service met the intended outcomes?

About 23 older people attended the session to make appointments for advice and another 50 - 60 came in to collect printed information. A number of referrals were made and people were signposted on to other sources of advice.

Do you have information on costs or savings?

The project cost under £250 which was the charge made for an advertisement in a local paper. The venue, volunteers and officers time was given for free.

What were the learning points in setting up this service?

This was a low key small budget session and the cost of publicity is prohibitive to holding a more regular service.

Contact details

Gerry Calder, Chair Thurrock Over Fifties Forum (TOFF)
Email: gerrycalder@blueyonder.co.uk
01375 412324