ABSTRACT
Charitable organisations which have the well being of older people as their prime objective have come to be politically significant organisations playing a key role as advocates for older people. The two major UK charities for older people, namely, Age Concern and Help the Aged, dominate public understanding of older people and their interests. These two charities are frequently confused with each other and exhibit a considerable rivalry. Collaborating in government consultation exercises means that the charities both legitimise government initiatives and facilitate better government understanding of older people's needs. The major charities have acquired considerable influence within the political system, and effectively provide the most efficient means of publicising the concerns of older people and providing information to Parliament and the media. The determination of the charities to address a wide range of issues contrasts with the 'single issue' approach of the pensioners' movement. Charitable status sets limits on what charities can do in the name of pensioners.
