A CAMPAIGN to encourage older people to wear sensible slippers to reduce the chances of falling over has been launched in Barry.

Dozens of people turned out on Monday, December 5, for what was a popular campaign launch, to urge people to buy close-backed, good gripped slippers for older people this Christmas.

Slippers for Christmas is a three week campaign and was launched by Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.

The health board revealed that it receives about 500 over 65-years-olds for injuries caused by falls each month.

Mrs Maureen Nicholson, 80, who lives on Lydstep Road, who also attended the launch at Age Connects Shop on Holton Road, said: "I was walking not so long ago and ended up losing my balance and fell over.

"I suffer with MS so my balance can be quite bad at times.

"I broke my shoulder and ended up in plaster for six weeks.

She added that she thinks the Slipper for Christmas campaign "is good" and "supports it".

Mrs Penny Gurd, 73, who fell over in May, supports the campaign to raise awareness.

"The slippers I had were dangerous," said Mrs Gurd, "I could have slipped out at any minute.

"I'm in favour of this campaign because it raises awareness of how to stop falling over."

Speaking at the launch, Oliver Williams, who helps patients regain confidence after falls at Barry Hospital, named ways to prevent a fall.

He said: "Walking, standing up, overcoming fear, communicating and wearing decent footwear are really important to help prevent falls.

"The more people talk about falls the less likely another fall could happen.

"Getting steady and well-fastened slippers, without heels, will prevent people from falling."

Cheryl Williams, principal health promotion specialist at Cardiff and Vale Public Health team, added: "The best gifts you can give this Christmas are good health and independence.

"New slippers for a loved one or neighbour will not only help to avoid falls, but will keep their feet warm during winter."

For more information on the campaign, contact 029 2033 6208.