`An ageing Society" is the title of an Open University course aimed at those with an interest in the topic. The course can be taken as a once-off or as part of an OU diploma or bachelor's programme in health and social welfare. The course starts in February 2001 and the closing date for applications is October 31st, 2000. The cost is £520 (£300 sterling). For an application form/details contact the OU at (01) 678 5399.

Age Action Ireland has been working on this course with the Open University since 1995 and a number of its staff are graduates. They are more than willing to talk about what the course involves to anyone working in the field with an interest in enrolling. Age Action's Robin Webster is a course tutor and he can be contacted at (01) 475 6989 or email

ageact@indigo.ie.