I was interested to read your article (Don’t fear the boomers! How Poland is celebrating its old people – and making life better for every age, 18 September) to compare and contrast with our own approach here in the UK. I looked on enviously at Poland’s prioritisation within national government of older people, through having a minister for senior affairs. More than 80 organisations are currently advocating for a commissioner for older people and ageing for England, which would help make sure that national legislation and policies reflect the needs of our ageing population. This will be to the benefit of people of all ages.
Many of the inspiring examples of activities and services that support and celebrate older people in Poland highlighted in the article are also happening here in the UK, often led from the community upwards. Many local governments have bodies similar to Wrocław’s “council of seniors”, such as Manchester’s Older People’s Board, running since 2004. Next month, there will also be numerous celebrations of older people and ageing to coincide with the International Day of Older Persons, such as the Ageing Well festivals in Brighton and Hove and Newham.
Much of the good work we see in our own country to better provide for our ageing population is delivered by members of the UK Network of Age-Friendly Communities, which we support This is part of a global movement for change through the World Health Organization, which has knowledge-sharing at its heart.
Seeing the UK Network of Age-Friendly Communities grow, and having national government play a more active role on this issue are two ways in which we could ensure that the UK becomes one of the best places in the world to grow old in.
Dr Carole Easton
Chief executive, Centre for Ageing Better
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