We call on the UK government to establish a Commissioner for Older People and Ageing in England

With 17 million people forecasted to be over 65 in less than 20 years, collaboration is necessary to meet the needs of the future, including alternative ways to access information and services.

That's why we're supporting our friends at Independent Age, the Centre for Ageing Better, the National Pensioners Convention and Age UK in calling for better representation of older people across government policy and decisions. A Commissioner for Older People and Ageing in England would be an independent champion for the voices and issues experienced in later life.

We believe this would help ensure that policy and practice across government considers the long-term needs of people in later life and the implications of our ageing population on society. To demonstrate the value of a Commissioner, read Helena Herklots' Housing LIN guest blog (opens new window) when she was appointed Older Person's Commissioner for Wales