Ickleford - Older People Award Winner

The village of Ickleford is a very welcoming place for people of all ages, backgrounds and beliefs and relies on the active participation of all sections of the community to function effectively.

There are many facilities and services in Ickleford, ranging from the village hall, WI and sports clubs to Brownies, Scouts and a mother and toddler group. All of these require the support of villagers to operate successfully and in order to encourage this residents are consulted on a regular basis. The parish plan that has been in development over recent years is a major example of this process of consultation. Over 80% of the community responded to it, including many younger residents who were encouraged to get involved by the presence of a teenager on the parish plan steering committee.

Newcomers, along with prospective residents, are provided with a village welcome pack that gives details of the clubs, organisations and local businesses; a footpath map of the Ickleford parish; the current edition of the village newsletter; and information regarding crime prevention. For existing members of the community, a comprehensive support network for all residents is provided by members of the church, parish council, WI and other organisations, all of which work closely together.

The village is particularly adept at supporting and caring for its older residents, who are integral to Ickleford’s community life. Many senior citizens in the village are members of local committees and have considerable input to village life. A lot of them have also lived in the Ickleford for many years and their long-term residency provides valuable insight into village life. Activities and services specifically for older villagers include a ‘Fit for Life’ programme, Meals on Wheels and hospitality cars providing ad-hoc transportation to local shops and the hospital. Plans for future activities to support older residents include coffee mornings in one of the local pubs and a possible lunch club.

Ickleford is situated west of Letchworth and has a population of about 1,800.

Visit the Ickleford web site at www.icklefordpc.com