Elderly 'champion' plans unveiled

The commissioner would represent the interests of the elderly

Plans to create a watchdog for older people in Wales have been unveiled by the UK Government.

The proposed independent commissioner for older people is believed to be the first post of its kind in the world.

A draft Bill was launched on Tuesday at Westminster which could lead to the creation of the post in 2007.

The commissioner would represent around half a million older people across Wales.

It follows calls for a commissioner from groups representing elderly people and the creation in 2000 of a children's commissioner for Wales.

GROUPS SUPPORTING A COMMISSIONER Age Concern Cymru Help the Aged National Old Age Pensioners Association of Wales Pensioners Forum Wales

The Bill has been published in draft form to allow consultation to take place.

The commissioner for older people's aim will be to safeguard the interests of elderly people in Wales.

'Take action'

Wales Office Minister Don Touhig said: "The commissioner for older people will champion their rights and dignity and protect them from discrimination and prejudice.

"This will be the first older people's commissioner in the UK and, as far as we are aware, in the world.

"Although many elderly people get the maximum enjoyment out of life, there are isolated incidents where they have not received the care to which they are entitled.

"The commissioner for older people will be able to inquire into the circumstances and take appropriate action."

Peter Clarke is Wales' Children's Commissioner

The Bill has been published in draft form to allow politicians in Westminster and Cardiff Bay to consult on its contents.

The commissioner could be in post by 2007.

The commissioner will work primarily with people aged 65 or more, but under the plans the commissioner may be able to assist some people aged between 50 and 65.

The plans also have the backing of the Welsh Assembly Government.

John Griffiths AM, deputy minister with responsibility for older people, said: "The commissioner will have a key role in promoting the independence of older people in society by ensuring that they have someone to speak up on their behalf and be their champion.

"Wales has a higher concentration of older people than the rest of the UK and this is why we're taking such an active role in improving the situation for all older people in Wales."

The role of Welsh children's commissioner, currently held by Peter Clarke, was created in 2000.

His office responds to complaints from children and provides a platform for their concerns and those of their parents.

Two Acts of Parliament control the commissioner but he is independent from government.

He also has statutory powers to gain information from authorities about children.

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