Minutes:
Update about site visits:
A video call had taken place with Les and Sharon, LCAF Chair and BFC officers. The purpose was to introduce them to the Forum. Discussion was had around suitable places for a site visit. Following suggestions at this meeting, Les and Sharon paid a visit to two local greenspaces.
Bucklers Forest Visit
On August 23rd, Les and Sharon visited Bucklers Forest at 10:00 AM. The visit was on a beautiful sunny morning, and they found a wide parking spot for disabled drivers near the entrance. Clear maps provided information about the area and notable spaces, beneficial for all generations, especially for wheelchair users. Les and Sharon followed the 3.6-kilometer blue route and found it wheelchair-friendly with well-managed displays. Recreational areas with seating and beautiful views provided rest stops and relaxation opportunities. They also appreciated the recycled and reused items in the area. Navigating the slope of the banked curve was a fun challenge, and they encountered friendly visitors.
Cabbage Hill Visit
On August 30th, Sharon and Les visited Cabbage Hill at 1:00 PM. They arrived on a sunny afternoon and found the parking space accommodating. Accessibility was good at the start, with flat surfaces, but some gateways were tricky for wheelchairs. Different path textures were encountered, including gravel, woodchip, and uneven surfaces. Signage issues were noted, and the group suggested improvements. The visit provided beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. Suggestions were made to consider different routes or additional signs for improved accessibility.
Participants raised concerns about overgrown bushes and graffiti on signage. It was suggested that feedback could be sent directly to the Rangers through the website's reporting form. A Parks user survey was mentioned, encouraging residents and visitors to provide feedback about their visit. Discussions included the balance between signage and maintaining the natural feel of the parks. A link to an accessible route was to be shared with Sharon and Les for further exploration.
(Action: Rose Wicks)
Next, Steve Samson and his presentation on dementia-friendly walks and related topics. Members discussed the importance of regular physical activity in reducing depression and anxiety levels, as well as slowing age-related cognitive decline. It was also highlighted that it was World Mental Health Day 2023.
Update from Berkshire Age UK
Steve presented statistics related to dementia in the UK, including the current number of individuals with dementia and projections for the future. He reveals the geographical concentration of dementia in England, particularly in Bournemouth. Steve discussed the significant economic cost of dementia in the UK, which is expected to rise in the coming years. Steve explained his role in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, which involves making the area dementia-friendly by collaborating with stakeholders and supporting individuals with dementia. Steve provided information about dementia-friendly walks in Bracknell, including their locations and meeting schedule. Steve mentioned the goal of collaborating with care homes and other organisations to support the community.
Forum members asked questions and made comments about Berkshire Age UK, funding, and their experiences with Young People with Dementia (YPWD). The discussion wrapped up with discussion around how BFC officers might use their communication channels, such as a popular e-newsletter, to share news of the walks and promote uptake. The Chair thanked Steve for his informative presentation and there was general reflection by members on the importance of promoting well-being in Bracknell Forest.
BFC officers gave a short update on work being done with AccessAble, to provide new accessibility guides for key parks in the borough.
Rob was absent from the meeting, but an update was given about the many significant improvements carried out to public rights of way, particularly concerning Avery Lane and Quelm Lane. There has been substantial vegetation growth this spring and summer, requiring largescale vegetation clearance to maintain access along these public rights of way. Temporary closures were necessary for the work to take place.
A major footpath improvement was planned for Binfield Footpath 11. This involved resurfacing the lower section of the footpath and some vegetation clearance.
Pockets Copse does not have formal public access; it's informal. The improvements also aim to address the boggy conditions in the area.