The needs of older people and young children are not being catered for in the humanitarian system’s response to emergencies and disasters around the world, aid agencies HelpAge International and Save the Children said today.

HelpAge International, the global network that campaigns for the rights of older people, has announced the appointment of Toby Porter as its new Chief Executive Officer. Toby brings to his new role an impressive record in humanitarian and development programmes with Save the Children UK and Oxfam GB. Toby will take up his new post with HelpAge International at the end of September.

HelpAge International has challenged contestants in this year’s Young Lions Film Competition to inspire today’s youth into becoming campaigners to end age discrimination and fight for older people’s rights.

To mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on 15 June 2013, HelpAge International has published new research that reveals the high levels of violence and abuse experienced by older women and men around the world.

New research, published today, reveals how with a few simple adjustments, standard international household surveys could be amended to ensure global poverty data gives a true picture of life for millions of vulnerable people around the world.