Government seeks OPC advice

Many services affecting older people in the city are controlled by national bodies. This means that increasingly the OPC is consulted by these bodies on new developments. Because of the OPC’s fight for the retention of the Brighton to Watford train service the Department for Transport now asks for our views during consultation periods. We are currently being asked for our views on two projects affecting disabled passengers. MPs recognise the experience present in the OPC and consult us. We are currently discussing our attitude to a document issued by the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills dealing with the long term future of Informal Adult Learning – a subject very dear to our hearts as we have watched “Life Long Learning” cease to justify its title. The City & Guilds training organisation decided to run course for those working with older people – we were consulted at every stage. All of which results in the OPC being listed amongst major national and regional bodies as consultees!