Lab Log

Launching a major new programme

Rowena Young - 09.03.2009

Join the launch of the Lab's first major new programme - and take steps towards an age-friendly society.

Join the launch of the Lab's first major new programme - and take steps towards an age-friendly society

An ageing society has the potential to exact local costs in the UK on a scale comparable to climate change. Around three quarters of older people want to continuing working, but are forced to retire prematurely - and research suggests this deprives people of the opportunities that sustain well-being and prevent degeneration.

Leaders of health and social care services warn growing demand from older people - there are now more over 60s than there are young people - will bankrupt them within a decade if new models aren't found. While more widely, commentators raise the spectre of intergeneration conflict, as pension liabilities run into trillions of pounds and a shrinking work force pays too dear a price for provision which is historically at its most generous.

Yet despite the importance of the challenge, it has been hard to galvanise a response which is strategic and wins recognition from all parts of society.

Age Unlimited, the Lab's first major new programme, aims to strengthen the hand of agencies committed to bringing creative responses to bear. Launching April 21^st, the programme will centre on practical experiments to help employers better meet the needs and interests of older workers, to trial a new range of services to help individuals ready themselves for later life, to smooth transitions from working life to alternatives, and to re-cast ageing in ways that are compelling.

Launch activities will feature new research and debate - with a Secretary of State, innovators, and leaders of public services and exemplary practice in the private sector. But they will also feature practical sessions in which prospective partners can learn more about our aims and formulate their ideas.