Our Reach and Achievements

Our Reach

SOPA has over 65 membership organisations including community groups, national campaigns and organisations, equality and minority groups and lifelong learning associations along with individual members.

The combined reach of these members is estimated to be 40,000 older people across Scotland, many of whom are affected by ill-health, come from disadvantaged and diverse backgrounds, and often feel excluded from decision-making.

SOPA aims to enable and empower members to use their experience and skills to influence policy decisions that affect later life. Members feedback from national groups and forums to their wider networks of older people, creating a powerful network of engagement.

Our Achievements

Since 2009 SOPA has delivered nine national assemblies and over 60 local meetings enabling us to influence decision-makers on issues important to older people. Members are frequently invited to participate in consultation and engagement activities by the Scottish Government, the Scottish Parliament and other national and local bodies.