Pictured: Minister for Older People and Equalities Christina McKelvie MSP listening to an older person.
The SNP Government has published its new framework for action to challenge the inequalities faced by older people and to celebrate their contribution to Scotland.
'A Fairer Scotland for Older People: Framework for Action' identifies key steps to maximise older people’s contributions to society and remove barriers to equality.
The framework is based on the shared experiences of older people in the Older People’s Strategic Action Forum, an SNP Government stakeholder group which identified barriers to a positive older age and highlighted priority areas to be addressed in the immediate term to deliver better outcomes.
The policy areas highlighted included access to public services; community involvement; care sector workers; concessionary travel; financial security; fuel poverty; funeral costs; intergenerational activity; and housing. The framework then sets out key actions the SNP Government and other stakeholders will take to ensure the older peoples’ aspirations are met.
The Forum will continue to play a role in considering the actions and policies needed to ensure older people achieve the equality of outcome they deserve.
Minister for Older People and Equalities Christina McKelvie MSP said:
“Importantly, the framework provides a platform from which we can reframe our thinking and move from what can be a negative, problem-focused perspective to a positive and cohesive recognition of older people as a vital part of Scotland’s potential for success and improvement in the 21st century.”
Kenneth Gibson MSP added:
“I am delighted that this robust framework lays out a series of concrete actions the SNP Government will take to support older people in Scotland.
“Scotland’s population is ageing at a faster rate than the rest of the UK. In North Ayrshire alone, our over 65 population is set to increase by 45% between 2014 and 2039. It is therefore vital that we are laying the groundwork now to ensure that people in North Ayrshire and beyond can continue to lead healthy and happy lives as they age.”
To view the framework in full, please visit:
ENDS
