Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council has approved a new plan to make the area more supportive and inclusive for older residents, recognising the growing needs of its ageing population and the challenges this brings for social care.
The plan includes recruiting age-friendly ambassadors, encouraging councillors to sign the BCP Age Friendly Communities Charter, and supporting an inclusive work environment for older employees.
The council aims to help older people live healthy, independent lives while staying connected to their neighbourhoods as part of the World Health Organisation’s Global Network of Age Friendly Cities and Communities.
Councillor Sandra Moore highlighted that Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have more older residents than the national average, with more than one in three people aged 50 or over.
By 2031, more than half of the population is expected to be aged 50 or over.
Councillor Vikki Slade said that making the community age-friendly would also benefit other groups, including people with learning disabilities and those who are neurodiverse.
The motion received cross-party support and was approved by consensus.
