The Situation in Brief
As the government in Northern Ireland reduces the assistance provided by the state over the next few years in the wake of the global financial crisis, many low-income older adults who are dependent on government and family services and supports may suffer disproportionately.
Furthermore, older adults are often confronted with ageism as a barrier to opportunities for community involvement, service and learning. The Ageing Programme in Northern Ireland is committed to addressing the needs of low-income and isolated older people – including lack of financial resources, legacy of conflict, social exclusion, and health problems.
The Programme is committed to strengthening the voice of older people to advocate for policies to improve their health and economic security. As well, the Programme supports efforts to provide technical assistance to nongovernmental organisations working on behalf of older adults, and continued development of evidence-based approaches to influencing public policy on ageing.
Ageing Programme Goals in Northern Ireland
- Improve economic and health security through advocacy and policy
- Strengthen the voice and social action of older people
- Build a more enduring capacity of the age sector
Ageing Resources
- Age NI, www.ageni.org
- Ageing in an Inclusive Society, www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/age-ageing-in-an-inclusive-society
- Age Sector Platform www.agesectorplatform.org
Facts at a Glance
- 16.7% of Northern Ireland’s population is of state pension age. Northern Ireland population is 1.775 million.1
- The number of people of current pensionable age is expected to increase by around 11% by 2013 and 41% by 2023.2
- 51% of older people in Northern Ireland who are entitled to social benefits do not claim them.3
- 28% of older people are living below the poverty line.4
Footnotes
1. NISRA, June 2008.
2. NISRA, October 2009.
3. Income Related Benefits, Estimates of Take-Up, 2004/06 – Department of Social Development for NI.
4. Based on data from the Households Below Average Income Report (FRSA) for 2007/08.
