Petition: Minister for Older People
We want the next Scottish Government to include a named and dedicated Minister for Older People.
Scotland has a rapidly ageing population, with 40% of people over the age of 50 and a quarter in receipt of the State Pension, but our research shows two thirds of older people don't think politicians and governments care and take enough action on the issues affecting them.
Almost 70% of respondents to The Big Survey of over 50s in Scotland said they did not feel valued by society, and 59% felt life is getting worse for older people. Only 13% felt optimistic about their future.
That needs to change.
More than three quarters of people over the age of 50 say they want to see a Minister for Older People in the next government. They would take action for older people and ensure their needs are recognised across government, tackling the big issues affecting their lives.