Nexnet

The group from Barnsley College is currently in rehearsals for the self-penned piece which will debut at next month’s Pensioners’ Parliament in Blackpool.

 

Inspiration and guidance for the project came from pensioners’ champion Angela Galvin of Barnsley-based Raley’s Solicitors. Angela, who has represented the firm at the Pensioners’ Parliament for a number of years, approached the college drama department with the idea of finding a new way to present issues on elderly care at  the event. 

 

“I was delighted the college wanted to take part in the project and I have been so impressed with all the original ideas the students have come up with. I was keen to collaborate with the students on the Pensioners’ Parliament as it seemed the perfect way to bring the two generations together and produce something really different for this year’s event,” said Angela.

 

“The students have been doing a lot of research to really understand the subject visiting local care homes and speaking with staff and residents. I am really looking forward to seeing the end production

 

“Care of the elderly is an emotive subject and choosing a home, if and when residential care is required can be a very difficult decision for an individual and their loved ones.

 

“But with a rapidly ageing population it will be something many of us will have to face at some point. The piece the students have put together dramatises those difficult issues in a way which will really bring the subject to life for the audience in Blackpool.

 

“We are all looking forward to it,” she said.  

 

Raleys solicitors has been a supporter of the Pensioners’ Parliament, which will take place in June, for a number of years.

 

A national gathering, thousands are expected to fill the Blackpool Winter Gardens, giving the students an opportunity to showcase their talents in front of a sizable audience.

 

Organised by the National Pensioner’s Convention, this will be the 18^th Pensioners’ Parliament and representatives from all the main political parties are expected to attend.

 

Josie Whiteley, head of creative media & entertainment industries at Barnsley College, said the students were delighted to be taking part.

 

“When Angela approached us we thought it was a wonderful opportunity for the students to get in touch with issues which affect a different generation.

 

“Putting this piece of theatre together has been a real learning curve for the students. They have shown great dedication and commitment with their research and ensuring they are portraying situations correctly. It has really opened their eyes to the subject of care homes and care for the elderly.

 

“They are very excited at the chance to perform in front of such a big audience at Blackpool and it will be a great experience for everyone involved.”

 

 

 

Issued on behalf of Raleys Solicitors, www.raleys.co.uk, by Nexnet PR, 8 York Place, Leeds, LS1 2DS, www.nexnet.co.uk. For further information call Nexnet on 0113 247 0029 or email paul.newham@nexnet.co.uk, joanne.mead@nexnet.co.uk or sophie.mccandlish@nexnet.co.uk