login | register

Dame Joan Bakewell to be the voice of older people

in
Date published: 
Friday, November 14, 2008
News source: 
Caring Business
Region: 
United Kingdom

Broadcaster and writer Dame Joan Bakewell has been appointed the ‘Voice of Older People’ to help stamp out age-related discrimination.

Minister for women, Harriet Harman, created the position for Dame Joan, 75, to independently champion issues that affect older people. Her role will involve contributing to policy developments and such forthcoming legislation as the Equalities Bill, currently passing through Parliament. She will also speak at Government events.
 
Dame Joan said: ‘I welcome the chance to speak up for older people: we are increasing in numbers and need to be heard. With more and more of us expecting to live longer, there are issues that concern every individual: how will I provide for myself; how shall I afford such necessities as heating, lighting and insurance; what will my pension rights be; how much help can I expect from the state?’ 
 
Stephen Burke, chief executive of Counsel and Care, described the appointment as, ‘inspired’:
 
‘Joan Bakewell has a strong history of speaking up on issues affecting older people and particularly the blight of ageism.
 
‘We look forward to working with [her] to highlight the concerns and experiences of older people and their carers. This is a critical time as the Government prepares a green paper on the future funding of care and support.’


 

Back to top