Elderly and vulnerable adults and people with special needs or disabilities can find out to maintain their independence at an event in Strood next week.

Residents and carers can learn about the services available to them at an independence fair at Strood Sports Centre on Wednesday, January 14. There are two sessions, 10am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4pm, which must be booked.

Providers of care and information including Age Concern, The Carers’ Centre and Medway Mobility will be among the agencies attending Medway Council’s second community infrastructure fair to showcase the services available to residents.

Medway Council has commissioned a new service, called Living Well in Medway, to help adults maintain their independence and access vital care services.

The service is being delivered by Church in Society and Chatham Citizens Advice Bureau in Chatham, Rochester and Strood and by Carers First in the Gillingham and Rainham areas.

People will be able to refer themselves, or be referred by others such as another care provider or social care team. Anyone needing care will be assessed and helped to link up with a suitable provider.

Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Adult Services Cllr Tom Mason explained his support for the scheme.

He said: “This fair will allow people to talk to various organisations under one roof to ensure they can learn about the different care packages on offer that are suitable for their individual needs.

“Medway Council wants to give people the chance to devise their own care packages that are specifically designed to meet their individual needs.

"The Social Care Team is working alongside specialist organisations to ensure everyone in care retains their independence.”

Anyone interested in attending the event should contact Carol Galvin by either email carol.galvin@medway.gov.uk or phone 01634 331232 with the following information by the end of today.