Siobhan Brown, the Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) for Ayr, has lauded the achievements of the Opportunities in Retirement (OiR) Ayr Welcome Day, encouraging retired individuals to engage with the organization’s activities.
The event, held at Newton Wallacetown Church on Wednesday, October 11th, drew an enthusiastic audience of over-50s from the local community, eager to explore the diverse social groups offered by OiR to retired and semi-retired individuals.
MSP Brown commended OiR for addressing the prevalent issues of isolation and loneliness among older age groups, emphasizing the organization’s vital role in fostering social connections.
In a statement, SNP MSP Siobhan Brown expressed her satisfaction with the event: “It was a pleasure to attend the OiR Ayr Welcome Day, and I was thrilled to see such an excellent turnout.
I met with OiR earlier this year and was impressed with their efforts to tackle loneliness among older people. OiR offers a wide variety of activity groups, so there is something for everyone to choose from.
I spoke to the bowling, crafts, and country dancing clubs, just to name a few. I trust this year’s Welcome Day will see more people join.
I want to congratulate the committee for their efforts in organizing the event. I urge anyone in the area who is retired or semi-retired to sign up. Likewise, if you have a friend or family member who would enjoy OiR, please let them know.”
Chair of OiR, Barrie Southwood, expressed delight at the response to the Welcome Day, stating, “The Committee and Members of Opportunities in Retirement (OiR) Ayr were delighted with the answer to our Welcome Day on October 11th.
Attendees included existing and new members with our MSP Siobhan Brown and local Councillor Mark Dixon. OiR has over fifty groups; further information can be found at oirayr.org.uk.”