What is Age Concern doing to educate older voters on the issues?
NC: We published a manifesto last fall, which outlines the key issues as older people see them and our positions on those issues. We have also been hosting meetings or forums where we invite candidates from all parties to appear before older voters and answer any questions they have. We have also been talking to candidates directly and asking them to set out their stall on our key issues. A number of prominent political figures have come by local Age Concerns to answer questions, including Tony Blair who came by to pick up our manifesto. We are compiling their answers to questions and issuing voting guides. We are also doing polling, both nationally and in marginal constituencies. It’s a big time for us in the media, as well. We’re often called upon to interpret parties’ policies and explain who will benefit, who won’t, etc. Overall, the parties have got the message that their chances hinge on their success in appealing to older voters. AI: How do you expect their votes to break down?
