There are 11 million people aged 65 or over in England. In ten years, this will grow to more than 13 million. We have an ageing population, but there is no overall strategy to prepare for the complex social and policy challenges that this will generate. We need a Commissioner for Older People and Ageing in England to act as an independent champion for older people and ensure that policymaking across government considers the long-term needs of our ageing population.
Wales and Northern Ireland already have commissioners who are improving the lives of older people and protecting their rights. England has an independent commissioner protecting children’s rights but no one with the legal power to do the same for older people.
A Commissioner for Older People and Ageing would address inequalities and give marginalised older people a voice, help government deal with the challenges of an ageing population, have official powers to investigate relevant issues, and challenge age-based discrimination. They would have a say in policy and legislation and suggest ways to tackle inequalities in later life.
A commissioner would act as an advocate and give older people a real voice that reflects their views and experiences. They would challenge negative stereotypes and promote positive views of ageing and the contribution older people can make to society.
Our work has shown public support for a Commissioner for Older People and Ageing and for the government to do more to help people age well.
Together with Independent Age, Age UK and the National Pensioners Convention, we have published a statement calling on the government to establish a Commissioner for Older People and Ageing. The consensus statement has the support of over 70 organisations from a range of backgrounds and interests who want to see policymaking across government consider the long-term needs of our ageing population so that we can all age better. We will work with older people, organisations and policymakers during our campaign for a Commissioner for Older People and Ageing.
If your organisation wants to add its support to our joint statement, get in touch.
If you want to keep up with our work tackling age discrimination, sign up to our Age-friendly Movement below.
