Thirty-three organisations working with older people were represented at the inaugural meeting of the network, held at Adastra Hall, Hassocks.

The aim of the project, called the Partnership for Older People Pilot (POPP), is to serve and support the health, wellbeing and independence of older people across Mid Sussex.

Charles Boughton-Leigh, chair of the network and chief officer of Age Concern Haywards Heath, said: "It was an exciting event with a real buzz to it, seeing so many organisations working positively for older people in Mid Sussex under one roof. We plan to continue regular meetings to ensure we continue to provide the best services to older people and involve them in decision making."

The meeting was co-hosted by Age Concern and Mid Sussex Council for Voluntary Services. Age Concern, 4SIGHT, and The Mid Sussex Older People's Council in partnership with West Sussex County Council are leading the project.