BASW Supports Age Without Limits Day 2026

The campaign is urging action to end ageism

Age Without Limits Day takes place on Wednesday, 10 June 2026 and is highlighting the power of questions in tackling ageism.

No matter what you decide to do, remember that when we question ageism, we challenge it. And the more we challenge it, the more we start to change it.

Let’s celebrate older people’s contribution to our society, communities and families.
Let’s raise our expectations about later life.
And let’s celebrate social work’s role in upholding older people’s rights to care and support when they need it that enables them to live a full life.

Ageism is the most widespread form of discrimination. Today is an opportunity for social workers to question ageism and take a stance.

An age to celebrate by Graham, Expert by Experience

Ageing isn’t a disablement,

But Ageism is,

Adding prejudice to the moment,

Denying the wisdom age brings.

Experience is there to share,

If allowed to reverberate,

Enriching those who care,

For an age to hold and celebrate.

Q&A with Gerry Nosowska, Co-Chair of BASW's Special Interest Group on Social Work & Ageing

Most people don’t need social care in later life. In fact, older people make huge contributions locally and beyond. This includes through caring, work, volunteering, leadership and passing on wisdom. Many societies revere and respect elders as teachers and mentors who transmit knowledge, culture, practices, and values in their communities.

So a starting point to question ageism is to consider how we recognise the contribution of older people.

How do I celebrate older people in my life and community?

Of course, needs do arise in later life. The majority of people who need care and support are older. Older people can face significant life changes, loss and struggles. Social workers often work within structures that separate people out on the basis of age. Many organisations have teams or services for older people. Funding, for example benefits, is often age-dependent.

In this context, it is important to question ageism by ensuring that we strive to uphold rights and wellbeing for all, regardless of age.

Would social work in this situation be different if this person was younger?

Ageing and ageism, particularly where ageism intersects with other forms of discrimination, make it more difficult for older people who need support to uphold their rights. Social workers can make a huge difference. Unfortunately, social workers are less likely to be involved than they are with younger adults. This changes when social work with older people is seen as a distinctive and important area of practice, and when social workers choose to go into this fascinating area of work.

All social workers can question ageism by talking about social work for older people, recognising its value and – if you work in that area – sharing your experience.

How do I advocate for social work with older people?

Social workers can offer an empowering, values-driven response to needs in later life. We have a unique contribution to make, particularly in times of crisis and change. We can and do challenge ageism, including internalised ideas. We can aspire for the best possible lives for the older people we work with.

We need to question ageism by expecting more for older people who draw on care and support.

How do I see the person and not their age first?

Finally, social workers challenge assumptions, stereotypes or discrimination on the grounds of age wherever we see it. Ageism is not a given in our world. We can act as advocates and allies alongside older people to change the way later life is viewed.

We need to question ageism by reframing later life as a time of potential.