A GOVERNMENT bill to create a dedicated commissioner for older people in Scotland has taken another step forward.
The bill is the brain-child of Labour MSP Colin Smyth, now it has been published and introduced to the Scottish Parliament and will begin formal consideration by MSPs.
At present children and young people have stand-alone commissioners in each of the four nations of the UK, while Wales and Northern Ireland have commissioners for the older people.
The South of Scotland MSP plans to bring forward a bill to create a similar post for Scotland.
He said: “I am really pleased that my proposed Bill has taken another step forward.
“We have Older People’s Commissioners in Wales and Northern Ireland now doing a great job, and a big campaign for one in England. Why should older people in Scotland be any different?
“It’s not just about standing up for the rights, services and care of older people, it’s about challenging the negative stereotypes of ageing and celebrating the immense positive contribution of those in later life, such as older workers. That’s never been more important as businesses are crying out for workers.
“Our older people are an incredibly valuable asset for our country, but far too often they are unappreciated. I want to see that change.”
If the bill became law, the role of the Commissioner would be:
- Raising awareness of the interests of older people in Scotland and of the need to safeguard those interests.
- Promoting the provision of opportunities for, and the elimination of discrimination against, older people in Scotland.
- Encouraging best practice in the treatment of older people in Scotland.
- Keeping under review the adequacy and effectiveness of law affecting the interests of older people in Scotland.
The plan has already received considerable support at the consultation stage and from older people charity Age Scotland. The charity’s chief executive Katherine Crawford reaffirmed her support this week, stating: “We have supported and campaigned for the introduction of a commissioner for older people in Scotland for many years now and firmly believe it would be incredibly valuable in strengthening the rights of our ageing population.
“There is huge public support for this role and its creation would bring Scotland into step with Wales and Northern Ireland, and align us with a similar campaign running in England.
“This Bill has the potential to change older people’s lives for the better. Colin Smyth MSP has worked incredibly hard in driving this issue forward and we are very grateful for his on-going commitment.”
