Milton Keynes has elected its first champion for older people in the form of former Mayor Cllr Jan Lloyd. She has served the city in various capacities for more than 15 years, including her roles as head teacher and councilor.
Her new role will involve promoting the needs of older people by working with several organisations and the council across the city. The idea is to make sure that the interests and concerns of older people remain a priority for local decision makers.
According to a report in About My Area, the 13 September Full Council meeting included a motion from Cllr Debbie Brock, also concerned with older people’s issues, that a champion for older people be appointed.
Cllr Brock said: “Jan has the experience, personality and reputation which make her ideal for this role.”
Showing its concern and respect for the older generations in the city, the council also recently launched a Golden Wonders competition, aimed at finding local achievers over 55s. These “stars” are then honored for the differences they make in their community.
In this way, Milton Keynes is pioneering a new attitude among politicians and officials, where older people are honored for the many contributions and value they still contribute to their world.