A public survey is now open to help set the agenda for the Northern Ireland Assembly’s 2026 Older People’s Parliament. Assembly Speaker Edwin Poots MLA is encouraging older people, carers, family members, and interested organisations across Northern Ireland to take part.

The online questionnaire will gather views and priorities until Friday 24 July. The responses will directly inform the debate scheduled for 15 October 2026 at Parliament Buildings, Stormont.

Paper copies of the survey are available by emailing OPP@niassembly.gov.uk or by writing to the Participation and Outreach Team at Parliament Buildings, Ballymiscaw, Stormont, BT4 3XX.

Mr Poots stressed that the Assembly represents everyone in Northern Ireland and that the Older People’s Parliament is a key platform for older people’s voices to be heard at the heart of decision-making. He said participation in the survey could help shape future policy and debate.

The previous Older People’s Parliament in November 2024 identified challenges in health and social care, the rising cost of living, housing, transport and accessibility, and digital inclusion. Those issues were captured in a published report.

The 2026 event will continue to highlight matters raised by older residents across the region.