We are very excited to bring you news that yesterday Welsh Conservatives appointed a Shadow Minister for Older People. 

Welsh Shadow Minister for Health Darren Millar AM began the new role yesterday morning.

The role was created ahead of a debate on an annual report produced by the Welsh Older People’s Commissioner, Sarah Rochira. 

Leader of the Opposition in Wales, Conservative Andrew RT Davies AM, said: “Creating a Shadow Minister for Older People is about giving this age group the voice and prominence it deserves. 

“With the percentage of Welsh people aged over 65 now the highest since Census records began, it’s more than clear that the needs and views of older people have got to be placed at the top of the agenda.”

Jane Ashcroft, today expressed Anchor’s approval of the appointment saying: “I welcome the news that Welsh Conservatives have appointed a Shadow Minister for Older People in Wales and I hope that this commitment to giving a voice to older people sends a strong message to Westminster. The ageing population is one of the biggest challenges facing society - both now and for future generations - and we need to ensure older people’s needs and issues are given proper and considered airtime.

"Anchor’s Grey Pride campaign, launched in 2011 and backed by nearly 100 MPs, continues to press the Coalition to appoint a Minister for Older People. This appointment is long overdue – put simply, we need older people’s issues addressed holistically across government and at Cabinet level. I’m today urging the government to follow Wales’ example and show its commitment to real change for older people.” 

Mr Millar said: “I am delighted to add this extremely important portfolio to the work I already carry out in the area of health. Too many older people continue to feel invisible and more must be done to address their needs and make Wales the most accommodating place in Britain for older people.”

There have been campaigners calling for a permanent ministerial role in Wales for some time and this breakthrough shows that more and more members of the Conservative party are seeing the need for a dedicated minister with clout who can represent the interests of older people.

Find out more about this appointment on the Welsh Conservatives web....