 Dame Joan Bakewell has been named Communicator of the Year by the British Association of Communicators in Business (CiB).
She has been recognised for her achievements as the Government’s czar for the elderly, a role introduced last year to give the generation a channel for making their voices heard.
Bakewell, 75, who epitomised cool, intellectual beauty during the 1960s as one of the first high-profile female broadcasters, was recruited to scrutinise policy and ensure that it does not discriminate against older people. She enters the fray as the Government prepares its new Equality Bill. Sex, race and age discrimination are to be rolled into one piece of legislation, which will cover everything from equal pay for women to provision for the elderly in hospitals.
However, she made it clear that she will not simply comment on policies affecting her generation, but also wants to “celebrate the achievements of older people” and help the middle-aged to prepare for decades of active living.
Joan has a history of breaking through barriers. She came to prominence by challenging the dominance of male presenters with programmes such as Late Night LineUp, and went on to host the documentary series Heart of the Matter and in 2001 wrote and presented Taboo, a series about censorship that dealt frankly with sex and nudity on television.
She recently decamped from The Guardian to The Times, where she writes a feisty Friday column, and is chairman of several arts organisations.
Joan will receive her award at a high-profile industry lunch on 27 November at the Sheraton Park Lane Hotel in London.
CiB events director Suzanne Peck comments: “Dame Joan has never been afraid to tackle the big issues, and her current role as the voice of older people is central to some of the key challenges facing society today. She has always commanded attention and respect through her measured and eloquent communication, and is a most worthy recipient of this award.
The event will also see the announcement of the Communicators of the Year award winners - the 'People' awards. Ranging from 'Best Communication Manager' and 'Best In-house Communication Team' to 'Best Editor' and 'Best Designer' the awards are celebrating the talented people and teams behind effective channels. To book your place at the lunch of the year, contact Brenda Scott on brenda@ioic.org.uk or tel: 01908 313755.
CiB members - £99 + VAT; non-members £125+ VAT. Table for 10 - £900 + VAT
Further information about the Communicator of the Year awards event is available at www.ioic.org.uk/content/events
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