Does England need an Older People’s Commissioner to challenge ageism and discrimination?
The Women and Equalities Committee (WEC) takes evidence from the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales and national charities during the first evidence session of its inquiry into the rights of older people.
WEC launched the inquiry in September 2023 to examine whether discrimination and ageist stereotyping, such as characterising older people as helpless or wealthy “boomers” is preventing them from participating fully in society.
Meeting details
During the session, the cross-party committee of MPs hears from Caroline Abrahams CBE, Charity Director, Age UK, Dr Carole Easton OBE, Chief Executive, Centre for Ageing Better, Joanna Elson CBE, Chief Executive, Independent Age and Heléna Herklots CBE, Older People’s Commissioner for Wales.
The opening evidence session of the inquiry is expected to touch upon key issues impacting older people - including ageist stereotypes, discriminatory practices and policies in the labour market, local services, healthcare and financial services, and digital exclusion - and the extent to which they are adequately understood and being addressed effectively.
It considers the diversity of the UK’s older population and intersecting issues, including for older women, racial and ethnic minorities, and LGBT people. It also examines the framework for championing the rights of older people in the UK, including the roles of the EHRC (Equality and Human Rights Commission), UK Government ministers and the Equality Hub, and the case being made across the sector for an Older People’s Commissioner for England.