Opinion Leader Research has been appointed by the Department for Work and Pensions to run a major public engagement programme that will culminate in bringing together over 1000 people across the United Kingdom in six simultaneous deliberative debates. In a series of day-long debates on and leading up to a 'National Pensions Day', citizens of all ages and backgrounds, from around the UK, will discuss the difficult choices ahead in securing a fair and adequate retirement income for all in the future . The outcomes of the debate will help DWP policy makers draw up the White paper on Pensions due in the Spring. This is another first for Opinion Leader as they continue to lead the way pioneering new methods for large scale deliberative public engagement. Announcing the debate at a meeting with key partners in the pensions reform process, John Hutton, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions said:
"Securing a decent retirement income for people in the future is one of the most important challenges facing society. We want people of all ages from every section of the community to be involved - this issue is of crucial importance to us all."
Opinion Leader Research will also work together with DWP to produce a 'toolkit' which will be developed to allow stakeholders to run events and provide feedback on the Pensions Commission proposals. Opinion Leader will also develop an online mechanism for members of the public to get involved in the debate. Deborah Mattinson, Joint Chief Executive of Opinion Leader Research said "We are delighted to have been appointed to run the national debate. Our experience of large scale consultation and of deliberative methods will be vital in helping the DWP to achieve a national consensus on this really important issue."
Notes to editors:
1.
Opinion Leader Research is a research-based consultancy offering a range of qualitative, quantitative, deliberative and collaborative methods.
Opinion Leader Research has over 12 years' experience involving the public in meaningful decision-making. Clients include some of Britain's top companies, major charities, media organisations, as well as many government departments and public bodies.
2.
The National Pensions Debate will draw on the findings of the independent Pensions Commission report, chaired by Adair Turner.
The debate will concentrate on the options Lord Turner and his fellow commissioners set out. People will be asked to give their views on a package of options including the following elements: 1. The basic framework of the State Pension. 2. State Pension Age and working longer. 3. A national system of personal pension accounts. 4. The role of employers in providing pensions. 5. Correcting past inequalities - particularly those faced by women and carers. For more information please contact Justin Doherty on 020 7861 3274 or Nicki Wilson on 020 7861 3226
