Later years

Within 10 years we can expect Southampton’s population of people over 50 to increase by 11%, whilst the number of people over 80 is predicted to rise by 5%. Research also shows that widespread social exclusion, caused by a variety of factors, reduces the quality of life of many seniors.

The Council's later years agenda (for more information on what we mean by 'later years' please click here) is to address these issues, create opportunities for a fulfilling later life and make the most of the opportunity that an ageing population offers the city. To see the Council's strategic approach to Later years please click here.

To tackle these issues the Council set up the Later years partnership. The partnership is a group of statutory and voluntary organisations committed to improving life for seniors in Southampton and concerned with issues affecting people over 50. It recognises the interlinked nature of these issues, and the need to work together to make a difference.

In June, the Later years partnership sponsored a conference on elder abuse. This was highly regarded by attendees, who endorsed a statement and areas for action on the matter.

The Later years team also works with the Southampton Seniors council. This is an independent body of members aged over 60, committed to improving life for seniors in Southampton by making their voices heard. As part of its approach to later years, the City Council has adopted the Seniors statement on ageism, and the Senior citizens charter. This is aimed at making Southampton a city that is 'good to grow older in’. Under the charter the council invites Southampton seniors council to give feedback on progress each year. You can read more about this from the link on the right.

In celebration of International day of older persons, the Seniors Council launched ‘Few Amongst Many’, an exhibition highlighting the extent and variety of contributions that seniors continue to make to the city.

Southampton is a member of Better Government for Older People (BGOP) and manages the BGOP regional network in the South-east.

Please follow the links to the left to find out more about what we do.