A CAMPAIGN to make businesses more friendly to the elderly has been launched.

Home Instead Slough, of Stoke Road, has announced the beginning of the 'Age Friendly Take a Seat' campaign. Under the scheme, retailers and businesses taking part display a 'Come and Take a Seat' sticker in their window - this promises that elderly shoppers will find seats and benches inside, where they can stop for a break and a glass of water before continuing their shopping. The concept first took off in New York, and has since spread to a number of towns and cities in the UK.

Paul Sahota, the leader of the campaign, said: "I was just aghast at how simple an idea it was and that actually once implemented, what a difference it could make to the forgotten seniors in our community.

"I am committed to changing the face of ageing in Slough and this is just the start. Our aim is to have 100 business owners supporting the campaign."

Mr Sahota said so far a dozen businesses had signed up for the scheme, and that it was 'progressing well.'

The owner of one of the businesses, Jaspreet Singh, who manages the Spar convenience store on Stoke Road said: "I will be talking to my fellow colleagues and asking them to get behind the campaign, and show that not only does Slough mean business, but it also means businesses support the community."

The MP for Slough, Tan Dhesi, also got behind the campaign, attending the launch in Gaudio’s Coffee & Sandwich Bar, Stoke Road, along with a number of nearby businesses. Mr Dhesi said: "I too am committed to helping the senior citizens of Slough Borough to feel they are supported by the community to live well, independently and free from anxiety in doing their everyday activities.

"The support the Stoke Road businesses have shown to this cause is to be applauded. I now ask all the shops, restaurants, cafes and offices in Slough to take up the challenge and get behind the campaign - display the sticker in your window to show support."

If you are a business owner wanting to support the scheme, email contact.sloughanduxbridge@homeinstead.co.uk