HC Deb 30 June 1993 vol 227 cc547-8W
Mr. Cox

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will list the actions taken by her Department in support of the European Year of the Elderly within the United Kingdom.

Mr. Bowis

The Department, in co-operation with the Department of Social Security, has overall co-ordinating responsibility in the United Kingdom for the European Year of Older People and Solidarity between Generations. Officials from the Department participate in an advisory committee on the year at European level.

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State launched the year in the United Kingdom at the age resource awards, which were presented in London on17 December 1992 by His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales. Following consultation with a wide range of national voluntary and professional bodies, statutory authorities and other relevant Government Departments, we have set up a group to advise on the conduct, promotion and evaluation of the programme of events to celebrate the year. The group involves representatives of organisations reflecting the interests of older people, and will take direct account wherever possible of the views and preferences of older people themselves. The programme in the United Kingdom is focusing on four major themes:

  • Combating 'ageism' and promoting positive images of aging;
  • Volunteering;
  • Health promotion and active leisure, including remaining mentally active;
  • Social integration, including problems of isolation and loneliness, information needs, housing, transport and community care issues.

Task groups have been set up to examine each of these themes and put forward specific proposals.

There are two elements to the year in the United Kingdom: a core programme involving national events focusing on the four themes, including cultural and sporting events, exhibitions and conferences; and a general programme, consisting of local and regional activities. A number of high-profile initiatives have already taken place and several important forthcoming events are planned, including a major European symposium in Birmingham in October on the theme "Promoting Health in Europe: Investing in Older People at Work."

The Department is also funding a secretariat—based at Age Concern England headquarters—to co-ordinate the core programme and to disseminate news and information.