Ahead of the Chancellor's Autumn Statement, Age UK is warning that six in ten older people on low incomes are cutting back on heating to make ends meet. The charity, which campaigns on behalf of older individuals, is calling on the Government to extend targeted support for those struggling with the cost of living.
According to Age UK, many older people are being forced to choose between heating their homes and paying for food and other essentials. The charity is warning that this could have serious consequences for their health and wellbeing.
In a statement, Age UK's charity director, Caroline Abrahams, said: 'We are deeply concerned about the impact of the cost of living crisis on older people, particularly those living on low incomes. Many are being forced to cut back on essentials like heating, which could have serious consequences for their health and wellbeing.'
The Government has already implemented various measures to support low-income households, including the Warm Home Discount scheme. However, Age UK is calling for further targeted support to be provided in the Autumn Statement.
The Autumn Statement is expected to outline the Government's financial plans for the coming year, including any new policies or measures to support low-income households. Opposition parties have already begun to criticise the Government's handling of the cost of living crisis, with Labour's shadow Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, saying: 'The Government's policies are failing to address the root causes of poverty and inequality.'