Gordon Lishman‚ Director-General of Age Concern England‚ said:
“The pre-Budget report has shown that the Chancellor is capable of quick goals but it is not clear if he has a long-term game plan. His announcement to help older people with their winter bills is a half-hearted attempt to deal with the ageing population but is not a long term solution.

“The ageing society is one of the biggest social and political challenges of our time.  We need bold political leadership to turn our ageing society into an opportunity rather than a burden.”

Winter fuel payments
“With rising energy bills and a low basic state pension‚ the winter fuel payment is the only way some pensioners can afford to pay their heating bill. Around 31‚000 pensioners died last winter as a result of the cold.

“Many older people will be reassured to know that the Winter Fuel Payment will be paid every year until the end of this parliament. However the Government needs to reform the basic state pension so all pensioners know that they will have enough money in their pockets to pay their basic costs.”

Insulation and Installation payments
“The extra measures to help with the installation of central heating and improve insulation are good news for many pensioners but the Government must look at ways of also helping those who live in older homes without cavity walls.”

Council Tax
“Inflation-busting rises in recent years have been a major headache for many pensioners and people will want to know in advance if they will be receiving additional help towards next year’s Council Tax bills. Additional money for local authorities is welcome but what is really needed is a fairer system of taxation in place of Council Tax which is linked to people's ability to pay as well as the value of their property.”

Housing
“It is encouraging that the Government recognises the problem of affordable housing. With around a third of households consisting of at least one pensioner and the older population set to grow‚  any housing reforms needs to ensure that new homes can meet the changing needs of people throughout their lives.” 

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