Reducing Slips, Trips And Falls With The 'big Slipper' Event

Older residents in Edinburgh are being encouraged to trade in their old slippers for a brand new pair, free of charge.

As part of a community initiative in Leith, a ‘Big Slipper’ social day is taking place this Monday (18 November) at Easter Road stadium.

Hosted by Cyrenians, the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership, Gamechanger and the Hibernian Community Foundation, the event aims to reduce social isolation and provide advice on staying safe and warm this winter. A free lunch will also be donated by local restaurant Vittoria’s.

Those in need who attend will be measured by a specialist, who will order each person a pair of sturdy slippers. Experts from NHS Lothian’s falls prevention and podiatry teams will be on hand, alongside the Police and Fire and Rescue service. Helping people to stay well at home, Home Energy Scotland, Edinburgh Leisure and the Council’s Trading Standards team will be available with the charities Phone Link, Red Cross and Pilmeny Development Project.

Commenting, Golden Years Service Manager Pamela Shiels from Cyrenians said: “We work hard to ensure our elderly community can live happy, safe and independent lives. Trips and falls can have devastating effects on an individual's quality of life, often resulting in long hospital stays and loss of confidence.

"We're delighted to be working with our partners to provide sturdy anti-slip slippers to those who need them, helping to prevent trips and falls whilst also providing a social meal - one of our other key offerings. We will be fitting our guests on the day and inviting them to join us at another community lunch where they can chat with other guests, receive their new slippers free of charge and enjoy some good food."

Angus McCann, Chair of the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership, added: “The Big Slipper event is a chance to help residents in the North East of the city to stay safe, connected and warm this winter.

"Each month over 300 older people are admitted to ER in Edinburgh as a result of a slip, trip or fall and we know that ill-fitting or old slippers and shoes can pose a real risk. Having a fall can really damage an older person’s overall health and wellbeing, especially in cold weather. It can prevent people from getting out and about and can all too often lead to loneliness. Working together with partners and charities across the city, events like these help to spread awareness.”

Join in the event between 12-2pm, Monday 18 November at the West Stand of Easter Road (Hibernian Football Club). Advice on falls prevention is available online from the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership or from NHS Inform.