A joint initiative between Just Group and ILC-UK has today launched an invitation for submissions from organisations and individuals who understand the most common problems relating to consumer vulnerability that need to be addressed.

The Innovating for Ageing project aims to identify solutions to the growing problem of vulnerability in later life. To achieve this the project aims to bring together experts and innovators with organisations best placed to understand the vulnerabilities that affect consumers in later life.

This initial phase will identify the most prevalent and problematic issues faced by people in later life who are at risk of vulnerability due to physical disability, serious illness, dementia or financial exclusion.  Innovators and entrepreneurs from the ‘solutions community’ will then be invited to devise and share solutions to these challenges.

Innovating for Ageing is being led by the International Longevity Centre (ILC-UK), and the specialist financial services provider Just Group.

ILC-UK and Just Group plan to:

• Bring together innovators and designers with groups representing vulnerable consumers;
• Promote better understanding of the issues;
• Identify solutions to specific problems facing vulnerable consumers;
• Organise events and awards to recognise collaboration and new thinking;
• Identify and highlight key lessons and good practice; and
• Report back on public policy implications.

David Sinclair, director of ILC-UK, said: “Our ageing society is a driver for increasing levels of vulnerability – more people with dementia, with sight and hearing loss, and multiple long-term health conditions, for example.

“This project aims to seek out technological and policy innovations and solutions, with an aim to removing barriers and ultimately rethinking the products and services that are available on the market. We have already had lots of interest in the project and we are looking forward to receiving input from many people and organisations.”

Stephen Lowe, group communications director at Just Group, added: “In financial services and other markets regulators are calling on firms to deliver better products and services.

“This project will be a rallying point for those seeking to respond positively to this challenge, and an opportunity to address the issues vulnerable consumers face, so that they are better treated and get better outcomes when interacting with the market.”

Innovating for Ageing will focus across all sectors and disciplines, and is inviting proposals from all organisations interested in addressing vulnerability, to ensure standards are raised in how vulnerable consumers are treated. The need is clear and demonstrated by research from the Financial Conduct Authority suggesting half of UK consumers – more than 25 million people – currently show ‘one or more characteristics of potential vulnerability’.”