The NPC’s Dignity Code was “strongly endorsed” by Paul Burstow MP, Minister of State for Care at a meeting of 100 pensioners and trade unionists in Sutton (South London) on 29th October. He told pensioners “this is an excellent document and I look forward to working with the NPC to publicise it”.
Questions and discussion during the Decent Care for All rally revealed the concern and anger among pensioners as the care crisis grows. Burstow’s response was to set out his “wish list” for care, but pensioners said this was a far cry from the reality of his government’s policies.
The meeting followed a march through Sutton shopping centre, led by the NPC’s national banner, as part of the NPC’s “Rights in Retirement” week of action.
Other speakers were Kevin O’Brien of Unison who gave first-hand reports of the terrible effects of cuts and privatisation in the NHS, and Dot Gibson, NPC general secretary.
A copy of the NPC Dignity Code is available to download from the Publications page.