Older people from Causeway Coast and Glens make their voices heard at Stormont
Seven older people from Causeway Coast and Glens took an active role in the Older People’s Parliament at Stormont last week, putting their questions directly to Northern Ireland’s political leaders on issues affecting older people and their communities.
The local delegation came together through a partnership between Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Age Friendly Programme, COAST and Building Communities Resource Centre (BCRC), with funding from the Public Health Agency (PHA) supporting transport for the group.
Six members of the delegation contributed questions and statements during the Parliament, raising issues including the need for a successor to Northern Ireland’s Active Ageing Strategy and greater clarity on when a new strategy will be published.
The group also highlighted concerns around financial security, including the rising cost of essential living expenses and the practical support available to help older people access benefits, energy assistance and other financial support to which they may be entitled.
The Older People’s Parliament provided a valuable opportunity for older people from the borough to engage directly with political decision-makers, share their experiences and advocate on issues that affect their everyday lives.
Councillor Tanya Elder, Council’s Age Friendly Champion, said: “It is so important that older people feel confident to speak up and have their say on the issues that matter to them.
“The Older People’s Parliament provides a valuable platform for older people to put their questions directly to decision-makers and ensure their voices are part of the conversation.
“I would like to thank everyone from COAST, BCRC and the Age Friendly team for working together to make it possible for older people from Causeway Coast and Glens to take part.”
The participation formed part of Positive Ageing Month, which provides an opportunity to highlight the contribution of older people and promote positive attitudes towards ageing.
Council’s Age Friendly Programme, COAST and BCRC share a commitment to supporting older people to participate in their communities and ensuring their views are represented. Both COAST and BCRC are members of the Older Persons Consultative Panel, helping to strengthen engagement and representation across the borough.
The delegation’s participation at Stormont demonstrates the value of creating opportunities for older people to speak directly to decision-makers, share their lived experience and help shape discussions on issues that affect them.
Through continued partnership working, the Age Friendly Programme and its partners will seek further opportunities for older people across Causeway Coast and Glens to have their voices heard and contribute to decisions affecting their communities.