Hello, I am Councillor Matthew Riddle and I am a member of South Gloucestershire Council’s Cabinet. I have particular responsibility for Community Care and Housing functions and I am also the Champion for Older People within the Council.
This is an important role as the council is very committed to improving support and opportunities for older people; in fact improving services for older people is one of the top three priorities for the council.
This year we agreed a new strategy, "Valuing Experience; Independence and Opportunity in Later Life" with the Primary Care Trust, Age Concern and other local groups involved in supporting and working with older people. I am determined to ensure that this strategy, which was shaped and written with input from older people, brings about the change that it promises. "Valuing Experience; Independence and Opportunity in Later Life" can be downloaded from the 'read more' box on this page.
I am proud of what we have achieved for older people and the strategy means that the improvements we have made continue and that the needs of older people are considered at all levels.
A major part of my role as older peoples champion is to represent the interests of older people across all of our communities, in our towns and urban areas as well as the interests of those of you who live in rural areas of South Gloucestershire.
I regularly meet with older people and I would welcome your thoughts, suggestions and examples of things you are doing which might be of interest to others, please do contact me directly using the details below.
I look forward to hearing from you.
You can contact me at:
Matthew Riddle
Oak Farm
Oldbury Lane
Nr. Thornbury
South Gloucestershire
BS35 1RD
Tel 01454 413263
Mobile 07877413298