Playing their part It's an ideal we would all endorse: lifelong learning for everyone. Our fastest-growing age group, the over-50s, stand to gain from learning in later life whether for work or just for fun. We know that learning improves older people's self-esteem and self-confidence, and may make them feel more able to take on a responsible role within their community. Frequently, however, people in this group face significant obstacles as they embark on learning not least their own resistance or lack of confidence. Many different people are involved in the delivery and support of learning from tutors and librarians to museum curators, community and voluntary groups, and so on. This site suggests some steps that you, as a learning provider or supporter, might consider taking to ensure that over-50s in your community are able to play a full part in the learning revolution. As it is based on actual experiences, the site provides a reminder of the special issues encountered by older learners. It also offers some useful messages for those involved in local Learning Partnerships. Contents The options The benefits The obstacles What can we do? What's out there? Signposting Learning provision Other organisations involved with older people Real learners Real projects Printed version

Click here to go to Lifelong Learning or the DFEE Website. This page was last updated on the 18th February 2001.