Did you know that 1 in 6 people in the UK is over 65 years old, and 1 in 6 of those are in poverty? Over 3 million people across the UK are either malnourished or at risk of malnourishment. Over 1 million are over the age of 65.
Age UK state on their website that many pensioners cope with poverty because of their extreme resourcefulness and determination not to get into debt – something they are proud of. They prioritise paying household bills ahead of food and would rather go without things many of us take for granted today.
Benefits such as Pension Credit can make an important difference, but many older people do not claim because they are not aware they are entitled, and are put off by the process or are reluctant to ask for help.
Thankfully here at Lifeline Community Action we get widespread support to be able to help pensioners that find themselves struggling.
Charlotte (name changed for confidentially purposes) is 76 and is working with Lifeline Community Action to try and get her life back on track. Like many pensioners she lives alone and can often be isolated socially.
She only goes out once a week to collect her money to pay her bills and buy essential food items. Because of debt issues, Charlotte often needs help with food due to her low income. We identified that she needed a compact fridge freezer so that her food will keep fresh between shopping trips and enable her to buy cheaper frozen food items.
This is just one of many stories we have and we at Lifeline Community Action but sadly, many pensioners still struggle. We are determined to make sure we try and support any pensioner that comes to us for help. If you’re a pensioner and would like a home visit then please ring our helpline 07936 431262
Susan Sadler Founder – Lifeline Community Action
M: 07861 714779