Jackson Suggests Ombudsman For Seniors
The One Bermuda Alliance would move to protect Bermuda’s most vulnerable citizens by appointing an Independent Ombudsman for Seniors, OBA spokesperson for Seniors Affairs Louise Jackson said.
“The Independent Ombudsman for Seniors would act as a watchdog, working to prevent the kinds of senior abuse that we have all become familiar with as a result of recent court cases, and other incidences of senior abuse that have made the news.
“While some seniors who have been abused by their close relatives, or their care-givers, can turn to family members for support in their time of need, others cannot.
“For the latter group, especially, having someone to turn to who can assist them to navigate their way forward in an increasingly complex society, would be very beneficial,” continued Mrs Jackson.
“The person appointed to the position would be a neutral, confidential and independent third party who could listen to seniors with legal, medical and social problems, provide information, offer suggested solutions, and generally help Bermuda’s seniors to navigate complex government systems so that they know where, and who, to go to for help.
“By so doing, an Independent Ombudsman for Seniors would help seniors who have problems to obtain the best result, while heading off confrontations and gaps in the government system.
“The appointment of an Independent Ombudsman for Seniors would go a long way towards addressing the needs of our most vulnerable citizens,” concluded Mrs Jackson.
Hmmm..an Ombudsman for Seniors…would mean an additional salary, and likely support staff as well…more money…so how does this fit in with the OBA position of trimming expenses in the civil service?
Yes, I would have thought that the current one could deal with matters relating to seniors.
Trying to create a post, for herself after she leaves politics ah?
I think you are right!
There is no need for an independent ombudsman. This role could be done by the current ombudsman or rolled up into the National Office of Seniors.
This is a brilliant idea. We have a rapidly ageing population and minimum resources available for them. If you compare the resources thrown at young people compared with the elderly there is simply no comparison. Our ageing population is growing exponentially and they need much more protection as we move forward. Hats of to Ms. Jackson for a creative and positive proposal.