Farewell to Bee Myson
As Bee Myson retires after six years as Age Friendly Banbury Coordinator, she celebrates the many partnerships and initiatives that have made the town more inclusive, accessible, and age-friendly. “The voices of older people are at the heart of everything we do. They help us see what really matters.”, says Bee.
The partnership was born from a shared concern. In 2016, Oxfordshire Community Foundation’s Oxfordshire Uncovered report highlighted loneliness and isolation among older people in Banbury. With funding support from the Foundation, and leadership from partners brought together by Sir Tony Baldry DL, the town committed to doing something practical, visible and lasting.
Since launching in 2018, Age Friendly Banbury has been part of the World Health Organisation’s Global Network of Age Friendly Communities, one of more than 100 Age Friendly places across the UK alone.
Through the Centre for Ageing Better, Banbury has been able to learn from, and contribute to, a national and international network. “It’s inspiring to see what other communities are doing, and to know that Banbury can share its own ideas in return”, says Bee.
“Practical change has followed across Banbury. Walking audits have helped businesses and authorities see the town through the eyes of older people, looking at signage, seating, spacing, and accessibility.
“Co-designed improvements, such as toilets in People’s Park, age-friendly benches, doorbells at shop entrances, chatty tables, and better information sharing — show the difference small changes can make.
“The Banbury Business Pledge has encouraged local businesses to adopt age-friendly practices, from staff awareness to shared facilities, so older people feel welcome in every part of town.”
Throughout her time as Coordinator, Bee has supported Age Friendly Banbury initiatives including winter warmers, lunch clubs, digital support, wellbeing activities, and responses during Covid and the cost-of-living crisis.
Age Friendly Banbury has also been present at local events, from International Day of Older People celebrations to the Canal Festival and Playdays, helping to connect older residents with information, support, and social opportunities. Partnerships with Brighter Futures in Banbury, the Cherwell Older People’s Partnership, and the Communities of Practice have strengthened the network, ensuring the voices of older people influence local and wider decision-making.
As Bee steps back, the Age Friendly Banbury Leadership Group, chaired by Sally Scott DL, will continue to build on the work of the past decade. Bee says, “Our work doesn’t end here — Age Friendly Banbury will keep listening to older people, supporting partners, and making practical changes that help the town be welcoming for everyone. I know the commitment and energy of this community will keep the hope alive for years to come.”
Core partners, including Cherwell District Council and Age UK Oxfordshire, will continue to drive Age Friendly Banbury forward through the Leadership Group. Together, they aim to strengthen local support networks and community initiatives, addressing the challenges older residents face and helping Banbury grow into a town that welcomes and works for people of all ages.