Friday, 29 Mar 2024

Pension benefits AT RISK: ‘Lifelines’ MUST be protected for most vulnerable

The extent of loneliness suffered by bereaved pensioners has been revealed in research compiled by the Oddfellows friendship group. Almost a third of those who have suffered the death of a partner admit they have become socially withdrawn. Those aged 75 plus feel the isolation the most, with 30 per cent describing themselves as lonely. A quarter have lost touch with friends after bereavement. Women are more affected by loneliness – with 42 per cent affected – than men 26 per cent.

Robin Hewings, of the Campaign To End Loneliness, said: “Bereavement is one of the biggest triggers of loneliness in later life.

“For most older people their spouse is their main source of companionship, and to lose this person can be devastating.

“Older people who’ve been through bereavement need support. It’s vital we protect services and infrastructure that helps them to connect with friends and family.

“Free bus passes for older people are a lifeline if you’re struggling to pay the bills, especially with the added financial stress of bereave-ment.” This week, the Daily Express revealed £160billion is paid annually by the older generation for the good of the country.

The Daily Express has launched a Hands Off Pensioner Lifelines crusade – because pensioners’ finances are under threat.

The guarantee that state pensions will rise by a minimum of 2.5 per cent, the rate of inflation or average earnings is set to end.

The BBC is consulting on plans to scrap free TV licences for over-75s.

And a recent House of Lords report suggested making benefits like free bus passes available only five years after state pension age.

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