The search has begun for positive examples of media coverage of older people, their carers and the support they receive. The charity Counsel and Care is looking for nominations for its Older People in the Media Awards, which are designed to recognise positive portrayals of older people and those who care for them and of the contributions made by older people.

The charity, which works to get the best care and support for elderly people and their families, says anyone can nominate an example of media coverage from newspapers, magazines, TV, the web or radio for the awards. The seven categories include awards for the best provision of advice for older people and the best portrayal of care and support as well as an overall prize.

Counsel and Care’s chief executive, Stephen Burke, said research it conducted in drawing up its older people’s manifesto showed many of them and their carers were concerned about the way they were portrayed in the media. The competition aimed not just to highlight and celebrate the best examples of coverage but to influence journalists to think harder about what they wrote and said about older people.

“We also want to recognise the important role played by the media in the debate about the future of care in this country,” Mr. Burke added. Nominations can be made via Counsel and care’s website – www.counselandcare.org.uk/influence/events – and the winners will be announced in September.