The LGA has disputed claims that older people are ‘ignored and failed' by councils. Research by the charity, Help the Aged, revealed the equivalent of around six million pensioners – more than half the pensioner population – believed their local council rarely or never asked their opinion on issues affecting them. ‘It's awful that so many older people feel ignored and let down by their local council,' said Help the Aged policy officer Amy Swan. ‘Older people often make huge contributions to their local community through volunteering to help others. ‘Their years of experience should be valued, not dismissed.' But Cllr David Rogers, chair of the LGA community wellbeing board, disputed the research. ‘Councils take into account the views of older people,' he said. ‘As well as general consultation methods, such as mailshots, there are more than 400 senior citizens forums in the UK which local authorities regularly contact when taking decisions about public services. ‘We encourage everyone eligible – that is people from 50 upwards – to get involved in their local forum as it is one of the best ways to make sure their voice is heard.'
