David Blunkett was today visiting a comedy venue to launch a national project.
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions was formally unveiling plans for Celebrating Age, a festival promoting older people, at Komedia in Gardner Street, Brighton.
The festival, taking place in Brighton and Hove next July, is being organised by the city council and Better Government for Older People in collaboration with the Department for Work and Pensions and Age Concern.
It aims to confront negative images of ageing and celebrate the unique contribution older people make.
The event will include an international conference bringing together older people with policy and decision makers from public services from across the UK and abroad, a cultural festival and an exhibition showcasing services and opportunities for older people.
More than £100,000 has already been raised for the event.
Mr Blunkett said: "This national event provides an ideal opportunity for older people, policy makers and service providers to consider some of the issues highlighted in the Government's recently publishes strategy for an ageing population, Opportunity Age.
"I look forward to taking part."
Joan Moorhouse, chairwoman of the Brighton and Hove Older People's Council, said: "Older people are so often described in terms of what they cannot do.
"Celebrating Age will highlight the creativity of older people in a way that is both inspirational and challenging. Prepare to be surprised."
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
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