Scotland has a rapidly ageing population, growing at a faster rate than anywhere else in the UK.

But too many people are spending more of their later years in poor health and in poverty.

Many older people face multiple forms of discrimination and are too often negatively stereotyped- when we should be celebrating the immense contribution they make to our communities.

The profound impact of the Covid-19 pandemic also brought home the significant shortcomings in protecting and promoting the rights of older people

That’s why I am bringing a proposal before I am consulting on my proposal for a member’s bill to establish a Scottish Commissioner for Older People.

Under my proposals, that Commissioner – backed by statutory powers- would raise awareness of the rights and interests of older people; ensure their needs are fully considered in policy and practice right across all government departments and public bodies and have powers to investigate issues that matter to people in later life.

It’s not just about standing up for the rights, services and care of older people, it’s about challenging the negative stereotypes of ageing and celebrating the immense positive contribution of those in later life, such as older workers. That’s never been more important as businesses are crying out for workers.

My consultation on my proposal is now open – please share your views.

You can find out more about the consultation , including reading the consultation document HERE

You can complete the consultation survey HERE

As you are filling out the consultation, you might find the following briefing paper useful – to open the PDF, click HERE.