THE first meeting of a new group formed to improve life for York's older people has called for them to be given a greater say in decision-making in the city.

Members of York's Older People's Assembly called on the area's movers and shakers to actively involve the over-50s in decisions which affect them.

Tony Martin, a member of the assembly's executive committee, told the meeting that York was one of the first places in the country to have such a group.

He said: "The success of the assembly will be measured by its ability to connect with older people and decision makers. Ultimately it's about ensuring that older people's needs and aspirations are met."

Bob Towner, Older People's Champion for the Selby and York Primary Care Trust (PCT), welcomed the formation of the assembly.

He said: "The assembly provides the opportunity for older people to be at the heart of the decision-making process.

"There are 31,000 people of retirement age in the Selby and York PCT area, and the assembly will be a sounding board when putting their views forward."

The meeting recorded its thanks to City of York Council and the PCT for their support in helping the assembly to get established.

Coun Bob Scrase, the council's executive member for community safety and local affairs, told the meeting that he looked forward to hearing about developments.

More than 30 individual older people and representatives of 12 organisations have so far been appointed to the assembly, which will be an independent body.

Assembly members plan to work together to influence decisions on health, social care, policing, transport, and other issues affecting York's over-50s.

The assembly was formed following the council's involvement with the Better Government for Older People programme.

Its next meeting is to take place on January 27. For more details phone Penny Hutchinson on York 552037 or Tony Martin on York 426873.

Updated: 12:32 Saturday, November 02, 2002