Charity welcomes new Older People’s Champion role in West Lothian

Age Scotland has welcomed West Lothian Council’s decision to appoint its first ever Older People’s Champion, saying it will improve life for older people and ensure they have a strong voice.

Councillor Chris Horne led a successful motion yesterday to create the role, which received unanimous support across the Council chamber.

The move follows a campaign by Age Scotland, the national charity for older people, and the Scottish Older People’s Assembly (SOPA).

With an ageing population in West Lothian, the charity said that there has never been a greater need for a strong voice to stand up for them. The unpaid role involves identifying issues affecting local older people and standing up for their interests.

Nine councils in Scotland have already appointed Older People’s Champions. They have already made significant changes across Scotland, including pushing for better and more accessible public transport and supporting older people’s groups.

Brian Sloan, Chief Executive of Age Scotland, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that West Lothian Council has decided to create this new role, and I’m sure it will make a real difference to the lives of older people.

“There’s never been a greater need to ensure older people’s voices are heard and they can play a full part in our communities. Our population is ageing faster than the rest of the UK, and West Lothian is predicted to see a steep rise in the number of people aged 75 and over in the coming years.

“The impact of Covid-19 on older people has highlighted the need for this role, with many struggling to cope with record levels of loneliness and isolation. As we look ahead to a recovery, the Older People’s Champion will ensure that those affected by the pandemic are not forgotten or excluded from local democracy.

“Across Scotland, champions have already played a key role in pushing for improvements from better public transport and toilet provision to supporting community groups and activities. I’ve no doubt that whoever is chosen for this role will have a similar success in making West Lothian a better place for all older people.”

Cllr Horne said: “I am delighted and very proud to have led the creation of an Older People’s Champion through Council decision making, in the process highlighting the need for a stronger voice for older people in local decision making.

“My hope is that this person will challenge thinking to ensure the best for our older communities, whilst also speaking out to highlight the good things that are maybe hidden but available for older people. We can also make our communities much more aware of what each of us can do to make the lives of our older neighbours easier.”

Local public transport, road safety and parking, community support, and celebrating older volunteers could be some of the first issues on the Older People's Champion's agenda, he added.

The first post holder is expected to be chosen at the next full council meeting.