Pensioners offered 'fresh voice'

Workers nearing retirement will be asked for their views

A new organisation is being launched to campaign for those who want to work beyond the age of state pension.

Heyday, supported by Age Concern, will mark its launch by carrying out the UK's biggest survey to date.

It is asking 10 million people born in the 1940s and 1950s for views on issues such as ageism, pensions and health.

Robin McIlrath of Age Concern NI said it would "create one of the most powerful voices yet" on what people want from modern retirement.

Heyday will open up new options and opportunities for its members at a time when action can be taken, providing information for better choices and enabling them to plan ahead and avoid later problems Robin McIlrath Age Concern Northern Ireland

Mr McIlrath said people no longer followed a traditional pattern of working.

He said that almost half of the UK adult population would be aged over 50 in ten years time "with limited support from the state".

"We know that many of the problems experienced by the people with whom Age Concern Northern Ireland works every day have their roots much earlier in their lives," he said.

"Heyday will open up new options and opportunities for its members at a time when action can be taken, providing information for better choices and enabling them to plan ahead and avoid later problems.

"We also want our members to have fun through Heyday and get the very most out of life."

Mr McIlrath said members would be offered, via the internet, a bi-monthly magazine and regular mailings and access to "a valuable range of tools which would help them prepare for and enjoy this stage in their lives".