Organisations and businesses are being encouraged to join a campaign that aims to assure older and disabled shoppers  they’ll always have a welcoming place to have a sit down when out and about.

More than 300 businesses and community organisations across the county have already made a commitment to make their shops and buildings more age-friendly by displaying a ‘We are Age Friendly’ sticker.

Coun Gordon Wheeler, the county council’s deputy cabinet member for Communities and Public Health, said: “We applaud those businesses which are providing reassurance to older people and people with a disability or chronic illness that they will be offered a seat when they go inside, should they need to rest. Many shops will also offer a drink and, if accessible, use of their toilet facilities.

“We are passionate about helping older people stay independent and connected to their communities. It is so important for people’s mental health and helps reduce the risk of feeling lonely and isolated.”

Organisations who have already signed up include:

Newark’s White Rose, Art of Flowers and Newark Alterations and The Co-op in Southwell.

All local branches of The Mansfield Building Society in Mansfield and Kirkby are signed up as well as Mansfield’s Open Door coffee shop and the Mill Adventure Base, Sutton.

For further information about this campaign, including which businesses are taking part and how they can sign up for free, visit https://www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/care/health-and-wellbeing/take-a-seat