Our fellow-campaigners at Independent Age are campaigning for the appointment
of Commissioners for Older People and Ageing in Scotland and in England, a cause
we at CSPA share. We have seen impressive, recent examples of how successful
this form of cross-governmental working can be in both Wales and Northern
Ireland.
The General Secretary recently met with Independent Age’s Chief Executive,
Joanna Elson CBE, who provided evidence on the subject of The Rights of Older
People to the Women and Equalities Committee on the 10th January 2024. The
question of the potential benefits of Commissioners – amongst other things – was
addressed in the evidence submitted. Others giving evidence to the WEC on the
day were Caroline Abrahams CBE, Charity Director for Age UK, Carole Easton OBE,
Chief Executive at the Centre for Ageing Better, and Helena Herklots CBE, Older
People’s Commissioner for Wales. You can find out more about the WEC Inquiry at
The rights of older people – Committees – UK Parliament
Independent Age have a petition calling for Commissioner posts to be established
for England and Scotland, which they have asked us to share with CSPA members.
You are encouraged to find out more about the petition and sign it here or,
alternatively, you can request a paper copy for your use locally by emailing
campaigns@independentage.org or calling 020 7605 4200.
Civil Service Pensions to rise by 1.7%
Civil Service Pensions will rise by only 1.7% from 7 April next year, following today`s ONS announcement of the September increase in the Consumers Prices