Grey Pride: priorities for a minister for older people

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to argue the case for there to be a UK Minister for Older People supported by the work of a Commissioner for Older People. Design/methodology/approach – Draws on the work of the UK Grey Pride campaign to compare trends in demography and expectations with health and social service provision. Findings – With hospital “bed blocking” reportedly costing £20 million per month and limited responses to older peoples’ needs for appropriate housing, care and resources, the Grey Pride campaign has received widespread support with 30 organisations backing their campaign for a Minister for Older People. Practical implications – A Minister could help prioritise coordinated use of resources to make them more efficient and to help manage older peoples’ expectations. A Commissioner for Older People could investigate the accessibility and quality of care for older people. Originality/value – Identifies how no government administration to date has demonstrated its explicit commitment to prioritising older peoples’ needs.