The DUP has this weekend launched a new policy paper entitled Valuing Our Older Generation. Within the document the Party outlines 15 key goals for meeting the needs of older people. DUP MP for South Antrim, Dr. William McCrea said:

“Delivery for older people has always been a key priority for the DUP. We are justifiably proud of our record including introducing free travel and pioneering the Warm Homes Scheme. Since the restoration of devolution in 2007, DUP representatives have been active in delivering for our senior citizens, and this work has been complemented by our Parliamentary team at Westminster.

Significant demographic change is occurring in Northern Ireland and Government must take this into account in planning for the future. Today we have launched a comprehensive new document outlining our next objectives. It includes sections on financial challenges the elderly face, long-term care, health, safety, transport, valuing older people and utilizing their specific skills and knowledge.

In Valuing Our Older Generation we are detailing the following 15 key DUP priorities for older people:

Ø  Higher state pension, linked to earnings

Ø  Increased Winter Fuel Payment

Ø  More flexible Warm Homes Scheme

Ø  Single telephone number to deal with all benefit enquiries

Ø  Full or substantial proportion of personal care costs contributed from public purse

Ø  Re-examine reductions in benefits for pensioners with disability or entitled to Carer’s Allowance

Ø  Individual care plans

Ø  Comprehensive well-resourced strategy for dementia care

Ø  More user-friendly information for older people about health conditions they suffer

Ø  Strong integrated community safety strategy for older people

Ø  Consideration of developing retirement villages offering access to a range of on-site services

Ø  Improved access to public transport for those in isolated areas

Ø  Legislate for Older Person’s Commissioner

Ø  Retain network of local post offices

Ø  Consideration of legislation to protect against elder abuse   

Our document is available on the DUP website and we will be commencing a series of meetings and engagement with charities and groups representing older people. As always we are keen to hear views on our proposals, and there is the opportunity for the public to contact us with their opinions. The DUP will continue to prioritise the needs of our older generation."