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, particularly for ethnic minorities. 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 non-governmental 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 Concern Northern Ireland, www.ageconcernni.org
• Ageing in an Inclusive Society, www.ageinginni.gov.uk
• Help the Aged in Northern Ireland, www.helptheaged.org.uk/_fournations/ni/default.htm

Continue to read about our Ageing Programme in action in the Republic of Ireland »

Footnotes

1, Source: NISRA Annual Abstract of Statistics, 2004
2, Source: NISRA Annual Abstract of Statistics, 2004