McGimpsey committed to promoting choice for the elderly

Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey today highlighted the Department’s commitment to promoting choice and independence for older people.

The Minister delivered the keynote address at a conference hosted by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, which was attended by key stakeholders from policy and practice in the care of older people, both from Northern Ireland and other parts of the UK.

Mr McGimpsey stressed the importance of providing high quality care and supporting independent living for people in Northern Ireland.

The Minister said: “Everyone should have a choice about how their care needs will be met. The message we have been receiving loud and clear is that people want to live independently and safely in their own homes for as long as it is safe to do so.

“I am committed to ensuring that we respond to the wishes of our older people and ensure that high quality services are available close to home.

“Where we cannot support people in their own home, we will work to ensure that they are supported in the best environment for meeting their needs, whether that is supported living, residential care, or nursing home care.”

Notes to Editors:

• The Joseph Rowntree Foundation was originally established in 1904 and is one of the largest social policy research and development charities in the UK.
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