Event presents a 'hopeful vision' for ageing

Prospective politicians are being encouraged to consider the island's ageing population ahead of June's election.

Kate Wright said she wants the subject to play an "important part" in the next government's plans.

She was speaking at a conference promoting health, well-being, and community engagement for older islanders.

She said Jersey has an "exciting opportunity to grasp the mantle with this".

Wright is a Jersey-based diversity and inclusion specialist, public speaker, and chair of the Jersey Community Relations Trust.

She spoke to BBC Radio Jersey following the launch of a longevity framework for Jersey.

It was put together by the group 'Island of Longevity' which is looking at how Jersey needs to adapt to an ageing population, that could live beyond 100 years.

She said: "In the future we're all going to be living longer. Our children are going to be living a 100 year life, and its not necessarily going to be a happy, healthy, financially secure long life".

She described how the ageing population has economic implications too, particularly with birth rates also on the decline.

"It really is a significant problem that needs looking at," she said.

Despite those challenges, she said the project is providing "a joined up holistic, really hopeful vision" for the island.

She said 'Island of Longevity' has involved engagement from hundreds of islanders, and she was excited by the number of people "proactively asking about the project".

She wants ageing well to be an "important subject" in the upcoming election campaign.

The group has set out its vision, which aims to help people live "more joyful and meaningful lives within strong communities and a dynamic, ethical economy".

Wright said longevity isn't just about having a "really good health service...it's about the economy, it's about personal finance, it's about community and things like loneliness too".

She encouraged islanders start thinking about their own financial futures as early as possible.

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