As the final days of the election campaign draw near, an important and often overlooked segment of the electorate is speaking out – the baby boomers.
According to a new poll of 66- 88-year-olds conducted by JL Partners for Churchill Retirement Living, an overwhelming 78% of older voters feel taken for granted by politicians of all stripes and are calling for a dedicated Minister for Later Living to address their unique needs.
The survey suggests that there is an opportunity for whoever forms the next government to show they understand the needs and priorities of older voters. At the moment, when asked which party would be best to handle issues relating to older people – from financial security to medical care – don’t know / none of the above are the biggest winners.
The Conservatives still have the edge on Labour on financial security, whereas Labour are more trusted on social and medical care and good quality housing.
It also found that the Conservatives have lost just over half (51%) of 66–80-year-olds that voted for them in 2019.
It showed that 27% of 66–80-year-olds plan to vote for Conservative, 20% for Labour and 18% for Reform UK.
Among 66–70-year-olds things are even more competitive: Labour and the Conservatives are neck-and-neck on 23% of the vote, Reform UK just behind on 21%.
Spencer J. McCarthy, chairman and CEO of Churchill Retirement Living, said: “The next government must urgently rethink Westminster’s relationship with older people – starting with the appointment of a dedicated Minister for Later Living.
“An ageing UK population, coupled with a creaking NHS and insufficient housing provision is creating a perfect storm for a demographic so often cruelly forgotten by policymakers. A dedicated Minister for Later Living should be briefed to act on the links between all departments to put older people front and centre.
“The government’s election campaign has been criticised for concentrating on policies that will apparently appeal to older people, like National Service, protecting Brexit, a lack of new house and stopping the boats but this research suggests the cut-through simply hasn’t happened.”
Scarlett Maguire, director at J.L. Partners, commented: “There is an opportunity for Labour to make a bold offer to 66–80-year-olds. These key voters currently feel ignored by all parties – and are looking for politicians to show they are listening when it comes to policymaking.”
Figure 1: Which party will you vote for at the General Election no July 4th (Conservative voters)
Figure 2: Which party will you vote for at the General Election on July 4th (Conservative voters aged 66 to 80)
Figure 3: Which of the following comes closest to your view?
Figure 4: For each of the following, which party do you think understands the needs of older generations best?
