In rural England two fifths of the population is over 50, a quarter over 60, and 1 in 12 over 75, and these proportions are growing. 

This demographic trend has a wide-ranging effect not only on the social fabric of rural areas but also the functioning of the rural economy. Our whole society is ageing but the proportion of older people is considerably greater in rural than in urban areas. 

Rural areas are thus at the cutting edge of a major social transition. We are represented on the National Council on Ageing Rural Affairs sub-committee and we supported Age Concern England to produce a book on the different dimensions of an 'Ageing Countryside'.

 We also worked with Age Concern and Help the Aged on a good practice guide 'Older people in rural areas'.