Anchor’s chief executive collects CBE award for services to older people

Jane Ashcroft, chief executive of Anchor, provider of care and housing for older people, has collected her CBE from Prince William, Duke of Cambridge at Buckingham Palace.

Ms Ashcroft was recognised in the New Year’s Honours List for her services to older people.

She became Anchor’s chief executive in March 2010 and in the same year was the first person to win the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Social Care’ award at the Great British Care Awards.

Ms Ashcroft said: “It’s a great honour to receive this award and to be recognised along with other members of our community who are committed to making a real difference to people’s lives.

“To me, this award represents the tireless work of all of my colleagues at Anchor to enable older people to live fulfilling and happy lives. I have great pride in all of our achievements.”

She frequently advises Government departments on older people’s issues and is also chair of Care England – the largest representative body for providers of independent care services in England.

She is also a trustee of The Silver Line, a helpline for older people initiated by Esther Rantzen.

Ms Ashcroft also continues to campaign for the Government to take a joined-up approach to planning for demographic change by appointing a dedicated Minister for Older People.