Member Article

Tyneside women fight for the rights of over 50s

TWO Tyneside women are turning a dream into reality with the launch of a new social media site which fights for the rights of over 50s.

Newcastle Science City is helping Irene Oxnard and Pat Madin launch their new web-based platform to give over 50s and their families a new way to voice their key concerns to politicians and make suggestions about how issues could be fixed.

The site will allow visitors to communicate with decision takers and policy makers on a wide range of issues such as pensions, benefits, the right to die, choice of care and the right to work with an e-vote.

Votes on issues raised by members will forwarded by the site’s administrators to Select Committees, government bodies, MPs, voluntary and charitable organisations and others who are able to influence outcomes.

Irene Oxnard said: “Through speakingasone.com politicians will learn exactly what the 50+ generations want, which hopefully will result in more precise policy making and cost savings by getting it right first time.

“Today’s 50+ generations are amongst the most affluent, fit, healthy, and articulate in our society but they have significant concerns about issues including the future of care, job prospects, delayed retirement dates and age discrimination.”

“There is frustration that too often their collective voice is not being heard by society and politicians. Our e-voting, blogging and discussion groups will redress that balance and will deliver a very loud and potent message to those who need to hear it.”

Newcastle Science City has supported Irene, aged 65 from Westerhope, and Pat, aged 67 from Gosforth, with their venture as part of its work to develop science excellence and social debate within the field of ageing and health.

Peter Arnold, Chief Executive of Newcastle Science City, added: “Newcastle is leading the way on scientific research into ageing and health with its work at Newcastle University’s Institute of Ageing and Health.

“This project is an example of how the city is also leading the way on the social debate surrounding the issues that are important to us all – as an ageing population. We look forward to continuing our work with Irene and Pat and to the results of their hard work and vision.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .