Ageing Well in Wales: a national movement

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to inform readers about the Ageing Well in Wales Programme, including its background, purpose and key aims and objectives. Design/methodology/approach – The Programme is in its first year and works at several levels, from high-level national bodies to community/volunteer groups on the ground. The Programme’s success is largely dependent on the commitment of individuals and organisations. Findings – The Programme is on-going with no findings as such to date, however, the Programme is a response to research and evidence that suggests that the health and wellbeing of older people in Wales needs to be urgently addressed, particularly in the context of demographic change and the impact of austerity on front-line public services and the development of more preventative approaches. Practical implications – One of the outcomes will be an increasing understanding of what makes effective national learning and participative networks. Social implications – People in Wales will be more active and engaged and as a consequence experience greater health and wellbeing. Originality/value – Provides a state of play on the Programme up to Summer 2015, outlining what has been achieved to date and next steps.