Older People's Champion Network Northwest

Councillors from across the North West who are championing the needs of older people, met on 15th April 2013 at North Lancs Training Group in Accrington to highlight and spread good practice.

The Older Peoples Champions Network North West of England is a long-standing organisation that helps Local Authorities improve their focus on the needs of older people. There are almost 30 Local Authorities from across the North West region involved in this major network.

Cllr Colette McCormack, Older Peoples Champion for Hyndburn Council, is an active member of the Champions Network.  Cllr McCormack, working with North Lancs Training Group has opened up the opportunity for the network to look at some of the barriers and opportunities in helping over 50s retrain for employment.

The Department of Health has recognised in a recent report the importance of employment in the health and well-being of our ageing population and the contribution they make to the national and local economy.

Cllr Miles Parkinson, Leader Hyndburn Borough Council, said; “Within my lifetime it is anticipated that over half of our population will be over 50 and there will be an expectation that as we live longer we will have to work longer. It’s vital that we consider the needs of older people now in the way we develop services for the future. The Older Peoples Champions Network North West of England will play a big part to make sure we develop services suitable for an ageing population. I am very pleased to be able to welcome the network to Hyndburn and I thank North Lancs Training Group for hosting this important event.”