A CALL has been made for disadvantaged groups in Bolton to play a bigger part in the shaping of their own future.

David Shonakan, chairman of the Association of Disabled People in Bolton, is appealing for disabled and elderly people to come forward and discuss issues affecting their lives.

David is keen for talks on a range of topics. With this in mind he is planning a public meeting, but people must come forward so he can gauge the level of interest and organise a venue.

"I would like as many people as possible to attend as numerical strength does have an impact on the future," he said. "A range of issues will be discussed but the main one is the cost of Social Services.

"I have had a number of complaints from the disabled and elderly recently about the cost of providing these services.

"People are particularly annoyed with the increasing cost of the Home Care Service and the switch to meals on wheels seven days a week.

"We need to express our needs to Social Services and Bolton Council right away to minimise the damage to the social network. "Hopefully the meeting would involve the disabled, the elderly, their carers, and Bolton Council and Social Services staff."

People who are interested in supporting the event should contact David, c/o the Jubilee Centre, Darley Street, Bolton, BL1 3DX, telephone 385455.

They should leave their name, address, telephone number and state the number of people whom they know are willing to take part.

David added that a range of people, including council officials, have already expressed an interest in the meeting.

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