4NW/NWDA plan ahead for ageing population
The North West Development Agency and regional council leaders' forum 4NW have begun public consultation over a draft strategy for the region to cope with an increasingly ageing population.
The Regional Framework for Ageing for the North West is being drawn up by Manchester-based consultancy Organisational Development Services. The framework will cover economic, social and environmental objectives with housing and health accommodation among its top priorities.
The 50+ population of the North West is set to rise by 40% over the next 20 years with ratios of 'aged dependent' people in rural Cheshire and Cumbria due to soar, according to research by Experian in January 2008.
The draft report warns that planners will have to make increasing allowances for the safety and accessibility of residential premises, the cost and ease of transport, and the affordability of suitable one-bedroom accommodation.
A steering group which will oversee the strategy's implementation includes the NWDA, 4NW, the NHS North West, Department of Health Regional Public Health Group, Care Services Improvement Partnership and Government Office North West.
Consultation will last until the end of this year.
For more details please email 5050event@odsuk.com or visit the dedicated website http://www.5050vision.com/regional-framework-form.php.
