Safety First for our Seniors

As your Mayor, I, Rudi du Plooy, will champion a Hamilton where seniors feel safe, valued, and connected. My “Wow Factor” vision embraces practical, local solutions to enhance safety at home, in our streets, and in our community spaces. Together, we’ll make Hamilton a city that supports all seniors to thrive.

Commitment to Cost-Effective Initiatives

We are committed to implementing cost-effective, council-led initiatives that benefit every Hamiltonian; by collaborating with local organizations and fostering community efforts, we aim to build a safer and more inclusive city for seniors to thrive in.

  • Safer Streets and Parking: I’ll encourage well-maintained footpaths, better lighting in parks, and safer pedestrian crossings. Dedicated seniors’ parking at shopping areas, like Chartwell Mall’s model, will ensure easy access for all.
  • Seniors’ Help Desk: I’ll promote a seniors’ help desk at council facilities, linking seniors with local services, including access to legal help for financial scams or tenancy issues.

Community Safety Initiatives

Our focus on community safety initiatives involves creating programmes and resources that empower seniors to navigate their surroundings with confidence. From neighborhood watch programmes to safety workshops, we strive to make Hamilton a secure environment for all.

  • Digital Safety: By linking with Hamilton SeniorNet, we’ll offer free workshops to help seniors spot online scams and use technology confidently. Council libraries will host a seniors’ tech support hub.
  • Community Connection: I’ll support volunteer-led buddy systems and community events, like senior movie nights and free dress rehearsal shows at local theaters, to keep seniors engaged and reduce isolation.

Inclusive City Planning

Inclusive city planning is essential for ensuring that seniors have access to safe and accessible public spaces. Through advocacy, consultation, and partnership with city officials, we work towards creating an environment where seniors can age in peace, comfortably.

  • Senior-Friendly Businesses: I’ll create a Senior-Friendly Store Awards programme to recognize shops that prioritize accessibility, clear signage, and seating, making Hamilton’s retail spaces welcoming for all.
  • Health and Safety Support: We’ll provide local workshops on fall prevention and emergency preparedness, partnering with groups like Dementia Waikato to ensure seniors feel secure.

Contact Us Today

If you have any concerns about the safety of seniors in our community or would like to get involved in our initiatives, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.