An interview with Claire Hilton: perspectives on the dignity and care of older people in health and social care settings

Purpose This paper aims to provide a record of the 1960’s development of thinking and practice associated with promoting the care and dignity of older people. Design/methodology/approach Interview. Findings This interview sheds light on the development of health and social care policy and practice in the UK, particularly how the safeguarding of adults emerged out of work on the promotion of the rights of older people with mental health needs, including their right to care and dignity. It gives an insight into the work of Barbara Robb and the organisation she founded, Aid for the Elderly in Government Institutions, which successfully drew government attention to the poor standards of care for older people in NHS hospitals. Originality/value This is an original interview, as commissioned by Dr Jeremy Dixon (Series Editor).