Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

This is not an April Fool - it is a genuine offer from WCC.
Every year more than 30,000 people in the country who are aged over 75 suffer some type of fall. All falls have distressing consequences, and many lead to serious injuries such as hip fractures, and hospital admissions. Believe it or not, one cause of such falls is poorly fitting and worn out slippers!

At the Slipper Exchange there will be advice and information available from a range of organisations such as Age Concern, Wiltshire Primary Care Trust, and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service. People will also be able to find out about a variety of council services including trading standards, care and support services for older people, and libraries.

People over 65 can bring along a pair of old, worn-out slippers and exchange them free for a new pair which will be fitted by trained slipper-fitters. The new slippers are comfortable, warm and safe and will help reduce the risk of falls.

Last year over 700 people swapped their old slippers for a new pair, helping to keep them safe and independent in their own homes. Already this year 650 people have visited slipper swap events held in Salisbury, Devizes and Amesbury.

The council is working in partnership with Natureform who are supplying the slippers and providing slipper-fitting training.

Janet Day, campaign manager for the Natureform Sloppy Slipper initiative, said: "The difference a steady pair of slippers makes to the elderly is incredible. We all take for granted the stability and balance we have and the ease with which we can put and take off our footwear. Often older people don't have these benefits and the facts and figures are shocking to say the least. Natureform are delighted to be taking positive steps to reduce the risk factors."

John Thomson, cabinet member for community services, said: "These slipper exchange events are a practical way of helping older people to live safely and independently for longer. By giving people proper fitting slippers we are reducing the risk of people suffering debilitating falls which could cause distress and suffering to both themselves and their friends and family. People attending the event will also be able to find out about other services that are available for older people."