Pensioner poverty

Sir,

New statistics from the Scottish Government revealed that 15 per cent of pensioners in Scotland live in relative poverty after housing costs, up from 14 per cent in the previous period.

The UK and Scottish governments need to give much more attention to this and work together on taking more older people out of poverty. If there was ever a time for the Scottish government to realise they needed to take action, it is now.

It is also on its watch that these figures have been rising, but there is almost nothing to point to which demonstrates it has attempted to tackle it.

The new first minister should have this high on his agenda and develop a pensioner poverty strategy which includes a national benefits uptake campaign helping older people claim every penny they are entitled to irrespective of the government which administers that benefit.

The growing number of 55-64s living in poverty is also a real cause for concern when you consider what the future might look like for older people of working age.

Given that a third of our workforce is already aged over 50, a figure that will only grow as the population continues to age, it is vital comprehensive long-term support is in place for older people who wish or need to continue working, as well as older carers who may face additional financial pressure as a result of caring responsibilities.

By checking in with Age Scotland’s 0800 12 44 222 helpline, people can find out if they or older family members are missing out on any social security support.

Breaking down barriers to claiming support and ensuring older people are able to boost their income is key to lifting more pensioners out of poverty. Ending pensioner poverty is a complex challenge but, with the cost of living placing an increasing number of older people under unmanageable pressure, we cannot afford to sit idly by as these figures continue to creep up. Yours,

Mark O’Donnell, chief executive,

Age Scotland.