Shining a spotlight on older people’s rights

Older people and human rights have been in the spotlight today at a joint seminar organised by Help the Aged and the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission (NIHRC).

Marking the start of International Human Rights Week, the seminar was highlighting the importance of inclusion for older people and a Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland.

Rights at a vulnerable stage of life

Professor Monica McWilliams, chief commissioner NIHRC, has stated that the Commission has made the Bill of Rights process a priority and will be issuing advice to the Secretary of State on the development of a Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland.

Professor McWilliams said, “This important seminar examines those human rights issues of particular importance to older people and the difficult social and economic situation in which many find themselves.

"We believe there is a need for government action to combat age discrimination and to promote equality of opportunity. The fundamental rights of people at this vulnerable stage of life have to be properly respected.

"Our research, particularly in respect of health and social care, highlights that any difference in treatment by reason of age is illegal and should be urgently addressed by government and public authorities. Our older people deserve better and we hope that, as a result of this conference, we can work with agencies, such as Help the Aged, to better protect their human rights.”

Help the Aged support the Commission in helping to identify important human rights issues for older people to ensuring that the issues are embedded in the advice that is given to government.

Grace Henry from Help the Aged said, “We know through research and by speaking to older people that they think human rights are important. Many feel that they have no knowledge of their rights or that their rights are being breached. As we start International Human Rights Week, Help the Aged hopes that this event will shine a spotlight on this issue and ensure that steps are taken to protect the rights of older people in Northern Ireland.”