Informal adult learning is defined as any part-time learning that does not necessarily lead to a qualification.

In England, only nine per cent of 65-74 year olds and seven per cent of those aged over 75 participate in adult education.

Help the Aged believes that this needs to change. The Learning for Life campaign is calling for all older people to have equal access to informal adult learning.

The campaign recently helped over 640 older people to respond to a Government consultation on the issue. 

On 23 March 2009 the Government launched their Informal Adult Learning White Paper 'The Learning Revolution' which was directly influenced by this consultation. A full copy of the White Paper can be downloaded from the Department of Innovation, Universities and Skills website

The Charity has launched a new policy report called Learning for Living which identifies four skill types – financial, citizenship, health and technology – that older people need in order to remain active within society. 

Download Learning for Living
(PDF,962k)

What we want
Read more about our campaign aims.

What you can do
Take action and make your voice heard.