HelpAge’s commitment to localisation
HelpAge is dedicated to promoting locally-led development as a comprehensive strategy to empower communities, especially older people, in leading development endeavours.
HelpAge emphasises collaborative approaches that elevate the voices and efforts of local stakeholders. This involves focusing policy and operations activities on local leadership. We are also gradually transitioning our country offices to empower local actors to take charge of initiatives and embrace partner-led programming in all settings.
Why localisation matters to HelpAge
- Our foundational values and history:
Since its inception, HelpAge has been dedicated to fostering local leadership and autonomy. This dates back to the 1960s when one of HelpAge’s founders, the UK’s Help The Aged, began supporting financially self-sufficient NGOs. This commitment culminated in the formation of HelpAge International in 1983, which has since grown into a global network of almost 200 members. This historical context underscores HelpAge’s longstanding dedication to empowering local communities and organisations.
2. Our commitment to inclusion, impact, and partnership in locally-led development:
Partnership is one of the cornerstones of HelpAge’s values. Through initiatives like partner-led programming and global campaigns, HelpAge has consistently championed inclusion, impact, partnership, and learning. Our 2030 Strategy further solidifies our commitment, emphasising a shift towards national-level change and a vision for working directly with network members and partners to catalyse a movement that prioritises ageing within development agendas.
3. Our strategic vision for locally-led development and impactful partnerships:
Central to HelpAge’s mission is the belief that impactful change for older people is best achieved through locally-led initiatives. By empowering diverse local organisations and network members, HelpAge aims to enhance agency, voice, and empowerment among older people. This approach fosters greater accountability, ensures the fulfilment of older people’s human rights, and generates sustainable impact. HelpAge’s role as a supporter, convener, and thought leader underscores its commitment to partnering with and amplifying the voices of local communities, thereby driving meaningful and enduring change for older people worldwide.
Through advocacy and influencing efforts, we strive to create an environment where older people and local actors can actively engage in policy debates and shape decisions. At HelpAge, we are committed to amplifying these contributions and ensuring they are recognised on a broader scale.
