Despite the work of Age Concern Bristol to promote equality and help older people remain active, safe and independent; older people in the area often face discrimination in numerous different ways.

We are assured that The Equality Bill which is being considered by parliament now, includes measures which make it clear that older people should be treated fairly when using public services and buying or using goods, facilities and services generally. But at the same time, the Government are taking measures to assure older people that they do not plan to stop the positive benefits that older people are entitled to such as special holidays, cheap week day cinema tickets and discounts on travel costs etc.

Subject to parliament's agreement, the Government Equalities Office plan to bring a new law into force. They have recently released a consultation document on how the new law would work and are urging older people to read this document and share their views.

To read the consultation document online, visit www.equalities.gov.uk or to request a hard copy call the Government Equalities Office line on: 0207 944 0601