OLDER people and their carers are to be asked their views about setting up a permanent day centre in Otley.

People in Otley and across the area, including Bramhope, Pool-in-Wharfedale and Arthington, are to be consulted about their needs and how their lives could be improved.

They will also be asked what services and activities could be set up to meet those needs.

Organised by umbrella group for older people, Otley Action For Older People (OAOP) the major consultation will start in June and be paid for with a £6,000 grant from the Otley and Wharfedale Community Involvement Team (CIT).

Neil McLellan, of OAOP said outside consultants would be employed to make sure everyone had a fair and equal say in the consultation process.

"Throughout the process, older people, their carers and families will be consulted on two main themes. Firstly, the needs of older people generally and what sort of activities, services and facilities should be developed to meet these needs."

He said the second theme would be the creation of a permanent centre.

"We will be asking whether a multi-activity community and social centre, including a day centre for older people, would meet a real need in the community.

"People will also be asked for their views on possible sites and locations for the new centre and on what services, activities and facilities should be available through the centre," said Mr McLellan.

The public consultations, which will be carried out by The Neighbourhood Initiatives Foundation, will take place in June with a final report expected in August and the main findings published in September.

Mr McLellan said: "NIF uses a pioneering technique called planning for real with the main aim of maximising the participation of local people in decisions that affect their neighbourhoods and their quality of life.

"Public consultations will take the form of a number of 'planning for real' events in Otley and the surrounding areas with the people of Pool. Arthington and Bramhope having an equal opportunity to participate."

He said the events would be informal and would feature displays, maps and photographs.

OAOP will also be talking to voluntary and statutory groups and arranging to go out and meet with people.

For more information about the consultation, contact Neil McLellan at OAOP, Otley Civic Centre, on (01943) 463965.