STEPS are being taken to try and tackle the issue of loneliness among older people in Dudley.

Age Alliance has conducted an informal survey across the borough to find the reasons behind the problem and what can be done to help.

The alliance is an informal partnership of organisations across all sectors working together to improve older life in the borough.

Key partners include Dudley Council, Healthwatch Dudley, Dudley CCG, Age UK Dudley, Dudley forum of Older People and Dudley Interfaith Forum.

More than 400 older people completed the survey, which Jim Cameron, CEO of Age UK Dudley, said will help shape the delivery of services to the borough's older people and help them to enjoy later life.

The survey findings will be shared at an event on October 1, which Age Alliance is holding to celebrate the borough's older people.

It will take place at Brierley Hill Civic Hall at 10am and the invitation to attend extends to all older people in Dudley who wish to have their voice heard.

Mr Cameron added: "We will be discussing a wide range of topics including loneliness and isolation.

"There will be speakers from Birmingham University, officers from the local authority, the emergency services and the voluntary section."

Anyone interested in attending the event at should contact Michelle Raan at Age UK Dudley on 01384 354508.