Enhanced rights for older people in Wales move a step closer

The Welsh Government has, on Human Rights Day, announced its plans for a public consultation on proposals for a Declaration of the Rights of Older People.

The Declaration of the Rights of Older People, a first for Wales if adopted, will clearly highlight and articulate the rights of older people in Wales, as underpinned by existing legislation.

The Deputy Minister for Social Services asked the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales to chair a working group to consider how older people’s rights could be enhanced through a declaration of rights. The Commissioner worked with older people from the outset and the proposals are founded on what they told her is important to them.

The proposals make clear to statutory bodies and service providers what older people’s expectations are and what their rights are when accessing and using services. It will also help older people to understand their rights more effectively and how they relate to current equality and human rights laws in Wales.

Wales has led the way with its policies on ageing, introducing a landmark strategy for older people and the world’s first Older People’s Commissioner. A Declaration of the Rights of Older People would be a first for Wales.

Deputy Minister Gwenda Thomas said: “Human rights and equality are enshrined in the Government of Wales Act 2006. They are essential if we are to achieve our ambition to build a fair and inclusive Wales, and communities in which everyone can participate.

“We must dispel old-fashioned stereotypes of people based on their age, and recognise and value the enormous contributions that older people make in all of our communities across Wales.”

Older People’s Commissioner Sarah Rochira said:  “Introducing a Declaration of Rights for Older People in Wales would mark a significant step forward and would provide a clear framework and standard that can be used by older people themselves to ensure that they receive the support and services they need to live fulfilled, independent lives.

“The Declaration will also, for the first time, provide clear expectations to those who are responsible for the development and delivery of public services about how to support and engage effectively with older people across Wales.

“By responding to my call to enhance the rights of older people in this way, the Welsh Government has not only reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the interests of older people,  but also its commitment to equality and human rights, issues that matter so much to us all.”