Campaigners are pushing for the establishment of a Commissioner for Older People and Ageing to advocate for the needs of the elderly population in the upcoming general election. Backed by various organisations and highlighted in the Later Life Ambitions manifesto, this proposal aims to address age-based issues, combat discrimination, and ensure older individuals are represented in government policies.
Campaigners Urge Parties to Prioritize Older Voters for Upcoming Election
Campaigners have urged both major parties in the United Kingdom to commit to supporting older voters in their general election manifestos. They are advocating for the creation of a Commissioner for Older People and Ageing to address the needs of the elderly population. This call has been backed by organizations such as the Centre for Ageing Better, Age UK, Independent Age, and the National Pensioners’ Convention.
The proposal was also highlighted in the Later Life Ambitions manifesto launched in Parliament by Eurovision legend Sandie Shaw. Similar roles already exist in Wales and Northern Ireland. Dr. Carole Easton OBE, Chief Executive at the Centre for Ageing Better, emphasized the necessity of this role in ensuring older people’s voices are heard within government policies.
Joanna Elson CBE of Independent Age stressed the importance of having an independent champion to address age-based issues and offer advice on government policies. The House of Commons Women and Equalities Committee, chaired by Conservative Caroline Nokes, endorsed the idea, citing widespread and socially acceptable age discrimination as a critical issue.
Campaigners argue that creating this dedicated role would help investigate matters affecting older individuals, combat age-based discrimination, and advise on relevant legislation, thereby catering to an ageing population neglected in current governance frameworks.
