Bernburg/SLK. They are committed to building a strong community: to pavements suitable for walkers, safe access points, more benches in the town, or simply to socialising over a chat with coffee and cake. The senior citizens’ representatives in the Salzlandkreis raise issues that improve the daily lives of many people – and bring to the fore a large section of the population that is otherwise often overlooked.
Invitation to dialogue in the district administration
With this in mind, District Administrator Markus Bauer invited the members of the District Seniors' Council to a round table discussion at the district hall. A meeting that has now become a tradition. An important date. The aim was to honour the voluntary commitment of senior citizens, exchange experiences and talk about current and future tasks.
Bauer emphasised the importance of regular dialogue: the tradition of the annual meeting should be continued in order to look back together and focus on new challenges. "We want to stay in dialogue - on topics that directly affect people," said the district administrator.
Consultation and participation in the district council
Bauer particularly emphasised the contribution of the senior citizens' representatives as an important voice in the district. They represent the interests of older people in local committees and also play an advisory role in the district council. In this way, they help to ensure that the concerns and experiences of the older generation are incorporated into political decisions at an early stage.
There are currently 13 senior citizens' representatives active in the Salzland district. They are involved on a voluntary basis in projects relating to mobility, healthcare and social participation, particularly in rural areas. Many ideas arise directly on site from the initiative of the members.
Harald Lütkemeier, Chairman of the District Senior Citizens' Council, emphasised that numerous tasks will continue to be faced in the future - such as improving accessibility, coordinating care and ensuring mobility and services of general interest. "We need to work together across the generations to improve living conditions for older people in the long term," he emphasised.
Many practical examples were presented in the exchange of experiences.
Commitment with heart and experience
Annemarie Rockmann, representative of the Aschersleben region, emphasised how important it is for the generations to work together: "Keeping old and young together and being there for the elderly - ultimately being able to help people, regardless of their situation, that is our goal."
Frank Habich from Egelner Mulde reported on his work on site. He said that it was often about concrete help in everyday life, such as filling out applications or answering questions about services and support. "I'm happy to help anyone I can," said Habich.
Appreciation and support from the district
District Administrator Markus Bauer reiterated that the district would continue to support the work of the senior citizens’ representatives as far as possible. Their involvement makes the Salzlandkreis a better place to live – for all generations.