According to the University Hospitals of Leicester, 24,000 over-65s in the UK fall over at home, every year, because of poorly fitting footwear. Most of these falls are caused by wearing ‘sloppy’ slippers’ – poorly structured and ill-fitting slippers.
Loose, worn, or backless slippers can increase the risk of slips, trips and falls in adults within our communities. This type of footwear can cause poor balance and gait, and make it difficult for people to stay steady on their feet.
However, help is at hand. This year, NHS Somerset and SASP are running a scheme to equip adults in the county with properly fitting footwear.
Adults can attend a series of roadshows across the county to collect a new, free pair of slippers to help keep them warm and, importantly, steady on their feet. Partner organisations will also be in attendance to provide information and support.
See below details of upcoming roadshows. Adults in Somerset can simply turn up, and do not need to pre-book or register.
Friday 9 February | 11am – 2pm
Independent Living Centre Wellington,
17 Knights Road, Chelston Business Park, Wellington, TA21 9JH
Participants must pre-book here
Friday 16 February | 11am – 2pm
Independent Living Centre Yeovil,
Yeovil Innovation Centre, Barracks Close, Copse Road, Yeovil, BA22 8RN
Participants must pre-book here
Thursday 22 February | 11am – 2pm
Chard Library, Holyrood Lace Mill, Holyrood Street, Chard, Somerset TA20 2YA
Booking is advisable but not essential. Walk-ins on the day are welcome, but we may not have your slipper size available.
Thursday 14th March | 12.30pm – 3pm
The Balsam Centre, Balsam Park, Wincanton BA9 9HB
Booking is advisable but not essential. Walk-ins on the day are welcome, but we may not have your slipper size available.
Monday 18th March | 10am – 12noon
Church Lane Hub & Conference Centre, St John’s Church, High Street, Glastonbury, BA6 9DR
Booking is advisable but not essential. Walk-ins on the day are welcome, but we may not have your slipper size available.
There will also be roadshows taking place in Street and Frome in late February/March, but details are still being confirmed.
To find out more follow the link Falls Prevention – Our Somerset
