The Caribbean Community of Retired Persons (CCRP) has condemned the brutal murder of 80-year-old Sylvia “Miss Puncy” Barrett from the community of Bamboo in St Ann.
Barrett was reportedly tied up and burned to death in her house last week.
CCRP which expressed shock and outrage following news of Barrett’s death said: “Such acts of cruelty against our senior citizens are becoming all too frequent, and we therefore urge immediate concerted action by the government, communities, families, churches and concerned citizens to protect these vulnerable members of society.”
The CCRP outlined a Programme that can improve the safety and protection of the elderly in our communities.
These are the suggested measures:
- Neighbourhood Watch and community organizations identify the elderly and disabled persons in their geographical area, be it a housing scheme, district, lane, or apartment/townhouse complex. This information can be used to arrange for regular visits by members of the community organization to check on the welfare and safety of senior citizens. The information could also be shared with the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Poor Relief Department, and the Jamaica Fire Brigade so that specific programs can be arranged for their protection.
- Community Safety Workshops: Community based fire safety workshops conducted by the JFB for Neighbourhood Watch, religious, and civic associations to educate elderly individuals and their caregivers on preventative measures and emergency response strategies. These community organizations should take the initiative of inviting the JFB to stage these workshops.
- Accessible Fire Safety Resources: We commend the JFB for producing brochures in Braille so that individuals who are blind will get that information of what to do to prevent fires and what to do in the event of fires. We also recommend that accessible formats that can be viewed or heard from their telephones and radios be also provided for the most vulnerable.
- Home Safety Inspections: The JFB and community organizations should more closely collaborate in identifying homes where the elderly reside so there can be regular safety inspections, focusing on the unique needs of elderly residents, and provide recommendations for improvement.
- Emergency Preparedness Training: Community based organizations should invite and facilitate the JFB to conduct emergency preparedness training sessions specifically tailored for the elderly, emphasizing evacuation plans, safe exits, and communication strategies during emergencies.
The CCRP says it stands ready to collaborate with local authorities, the JCF, the JFB, and community organizations to implement these recommendations and promote a safer living environment for our elderly population.
Date: May 6, 2024
Publication: Our Today
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