Expert on ageing appointed to influential government taskforce

An expert on ageing at the University of Stirling has been appointed to an influential UK Government taskforce set up to improve housing options for older people.

Professor of Gerontology Judith Phillips has joined the Older People’s Housing Taskforce, which will work across housing, health and care sectors to drive an increase in the volume and range of housing options and make recommendations to the UK Government.

Professor Phillips was appointed to the committee by UK Government Housing Minister Rachel Maclean MP.

Professor Phillips said: “I am delighted to be appointed to the Older Peoples Housing Taskforce to help shape recommendations for improving housing options for older people in later life.

“It is important that we have a robust evidence base, particularly in terms of what matters to older people and I look forward to contributing to the development of policy in this area.”

Taskforce to report to ministers

The taskforce, which held its first meeting on Tuesday, May 16th in London, will run for up to a year and will produce an independent report to ministers, with interim findings available after six months.

Housing Minister, Rachel Maclean said: “Older people must have access to the right homes in the right places that suit their needs. I’m looking forward to listening to the taskforce’s findings as we help the growth of a thriving older people's housing sector in this country.”

The panel will include 19 members with expertise from the social and private retirement sector, local government, adult social care, and from investors and developers.

It includes directors from charities like Age UK and the chair of the Home Builders Federation, to local government leaders, CEOs of housing associations and professors on health and long-term care, bringing together independent experts who will help transform housing options for older people in England. 

Professor Phillips is a leading researcher in the field of social, behavioural, and environmental aspects of ageing. She has contributed to advancing the field of gerontology, theoretically and empirically, and has guided UK policy and practice on ageing issues.

Professor Phillips was recognised for her contribution to social work and social care when awarded the OBE for Services to Older People in 2013.

She is currently Deputy Principal (Research) at the University of Stirling where she is responsible for the strategic direction of research at the University.

Alongside her leadership roles she has maintained an active research career and is currently Research Director for the UKRI Healthy Ageing Challenge supporting the aim to help people remain active, productive, independent and socially connected across generations for as long as possible.