As a follow up to Leonard Goldman's views about the neglect of the elderly in our society (Letters, November 23), there is in Brighton and Hove a dedicated body which for the past five years has focused on the problems and difficulties of pensioners.

I refer, of course, to the Brighton and Hove Older People's Council, the first of its kind anywhere in the country, and one which has taken up a number of causes during its lifetime.

Elsewhere in the same issue of The Argus, the length of time taken to obtain hearing tests was highlighted, and this formed the basis of a recent OPC national inquiry.

We have been instrumental in making medical cards available to doctors' surgeries and pharmacists throughout the city, giving individual details of medication vital in an emergency.

We have drawn attention to problems the elderly experience in rail journeys to the North. We are trying to ensure that service providers listen to elderly clients. We regularly monitor city council decisions and budget proposals, having a voice on a number of committees and outside agencies, and in general we attempt to raise awareness of deficiencies and the neglect mentioned by Mr Goldman.

Closures of post offices and the impact this has on the quality of life of the elderly is the current problem we have commented on, and there are many other burning issues the OPC will examine and give voice to on behalf of the elderly in our society.

  • Harry Steer, chair, Brighton and Hove Older People's Council