The purpose of the work was to create a network of providers from all sectors to improve deepen and broaden educational opportunities for older people. The network members would be from a very broad range of sector – education, housing, health, social welfare, employment, older people’s organisations, community bodies, voluntary sector – and covering the whole region – (a Government definition of region) but embracing differing components and sectors within it – 5 counties, district councils, unitary authorities, 5 Learning and Skills Councils, Primary Care Trusts, Health Districts etc.

We decided therefore that real seminars would not be very productive. Therefore as the consultancy money was not available we decided on a virtual network, with virtual seminars and influencing existing networks to ensure older learners were considered. Therefore the workers attended the events of others, influenced the key regional development – the Tomorrow network; and more importantly commissioned Leicester Adult Education College to survey the region to highlight issues, stimulate debate and positively influence change - which we feel we have done.