THE 'OUR PASS' CAMPAIGN
In the 2024 Manifesto, Andy Burnham pledged to explore reviewing the GM Older Person's Travel Pass to include a culture and leisure offer. GMOPN are campaigning to have this implemented to improve the lives of older people across Greater Manchester!
Backstory
In October 2023, GMOPN conducted and released our 'Living it Up in Later Life' report, which emphasised the need for access to a free leisure facilities offer for older people and equal access to opportunities across the 10 Greater Manchester boroughs.
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In April 2024, GMOPN held a Hustings Event for all the potential mayoral candidates to discuss their pledges for helping older people. GMOPN sent our 'Living it Up in Later Life' report to all mayoral candidates, and elected GM mayor Andy Burnham incorporated this into his pledges.
What is 'Our Pass'?
The current GM Older Person's Travel Pass provides a free tram and rail service for older people within the Greater Manchester area (buses are covered under a national scheme). An administrative charge of £10 is payable each year.
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The younger person's 'Our Pass' also includes various perks and benefits, such as discounts and experiences. The younger person's model is limited, as it relies on the generosity of businesses to offer discounts.
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We would like to see an extension to the GM Older Person's Travel Pass that also includes the perks and benefits seen in 'Our Pass'. Not only would this improve the quality of older living, but would also provide beneficial health prevention measures, reducing poor physical and mental health in later life. However, we would like an improved model that offers maximum impact for older people in Greater Manchester.
Campaign Aims:
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Put 'Our Pass' on the political agenda
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Put 'Our Pass' on the agenda for older people in Greater Manchester
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Implement the pass in 2025
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When implemented, include perks and benefits that older people will value
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When implemented, ensure perks and benefits include activites where strong evidence exists that they promote healthy ageing
Want to Join the Campaign?
Whether you're an organisation or an individual, get in touch so you can register your interest in joining the 'Our Pass' Campaign!