75% of people would support the appointment of a Minister for Older People
New research by Anchor has found that 75% of people would support the appointment of a Minister for Older People.
Anchor has been campaigning since the launch of its Grey Pride campaign in 2011 to call for a dedicated Minister to address the many issues affecting older people which are the remits of different government departments.
The organisation’s latest research revealed that the figure for those supporting the appointment of a Minister for Older People increases to 81% for those aged 65 and over.
One of the biggest concerns for the people surveyed was the NHS: 45% worry that the NHS will not provide them with the healthcare they need in older age. This rises to 56% for those older than 65.
The Daily Express has launched its own campaign calling for the appointment of a Minister for Older People.
Jane Ashcroft CBE, Anchor’s Chief Executive, said: “The major areas of concern for older people - housing, health and social care - are currently spread across different government departments.
“These can only be efficiently addressed by the appointment of a Minister for Older People who will ensure there is joined up thinking between these departments and older people’s issues are resolved holistically.
“Only through a dedicated Minister can Government send a clear message that it is serious about addressing the needs of today’s and future generations of older people.”