Stamp Out Ageism in Rochdale

Ageism in Rochdale

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Rochdale Mayor, Cllr Ashley Dearnley kick started a new campaign to root out ageism in Rochdale.

Accompanied by the Mayoress, Beryl Wright he delivered an opening speech at a press launch in Rochdale Town Hall where a new ‘anti-ageism’ video was aired to the public.

The seven minute video portrays Rochdale’s senior citizens in a new light and challenges viewers to reconsider stereotypes as well as reassess their opinions and attitudes towards our older generations.

The ‘anti-ageism’ video expresses the voices of real Rochdale residents to raise awareness, improve understanding and promote positive images of ageing.

Emmerdale actress Meg Johnson, who plays Pearl in the popular soap opera, provides a stimulating commentary.

 “The need to encourage people to treat older people with respect and understanding cannot be overemphasised”, said Tracy Williamson, former Nurse Consultant for Older People at Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust.

Local people were quick to participate and were enthusiastic about wanting to help older people have their contribution to society valued. Involving people in the design and making of the video has given them a sense of ownership over the initiative.

Hopwood Hall media students, Debra Harding, 19 and Amanda Hewitt, 19 were also involved in the production fusing young and older people in partnership.

Free copies will be distributed across the borough and nationally to ensure the anti -ageism message is shared with school children, health and social care staff, voluntary workers and members of the public.

Partners in the project include Rochdale Primary Care Trust, Pennine Acute Hospital NHS Trust, User/Carers Action Forum, University of Salford, Heywood and Middleton Primary Care Trust and Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council.

Jackie Taylor, Clinical Lead District Nursing, Rochdale Primary Care Trust added, “Soon we hope that impatience and a lack of respect for older people will be things of the past.”

The video was successfully launched on 26 September at Rochdale Town Hall. Rochdale Mayor, Cllr Ashley Dearnley delivered an opening speech and commended all those who were involved in the production of the short film.