750,000 older people worried about affording Christmas gifts this year
Published on 20 December 2016 02:00 PM
New research has shown that three-quarters of a million over 60s are concerned about how they'll afford Christmas presents for friends and family this year.
The research, conducted by Age UK, also highlighted the extent of pensioner poverty in the UK. Age UK is urging anyone concerned about their finances over Christmas to call its advice line or read its free guides to find out if they are entitled to any additional income.
1.6 million in poverty
A staggering 1.6 million pensioners are now living in poverty, worrying about how to stretch their budget to pay for the basics.
Yet the latest figures show that millions are missing out on as much as £3.4 billion in money benefits, designed to help with the increased cost of having an illness and disability.
Are you claiming what you're entitled to?
According to the Charity, many older people who are missing out on benefits are unaware they could be entitled to extra income.
Some know about the benefits available but feel too proud or embarrassed to claim, or have been put off by the process which they feel is too complicated or intrusive.
Yet if all those eligible for Pension Credit alone made a claim, it could boost their budget by an average of £42 a week - extra cash which could make a real difference when buying essentials.
Get help from Age UK
This Christmas, Age UK is urging anyone who is concerned about their finances to call its national Advice line for expert information and advice about the financial benefits they may be eligible for.
Age UK Advice is open every day of the year including Christmas Day on Freephone 0800 678 1174 from 8am - 7pm. Our team of advisers are able to provide advice on a range of topics ranging from benefits to care homes.