Scottish Pensioners at Higher Risk of Poverty

A damning new study into pensioner poverty shows Britain near the bottom of an international league table. It also revealed that the proportion of pensioners in the UK living below acceptable standards is higher than seven former communist countries including Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary. The report takes into account the differences in costs of living across Europe.

The survey of 27 European countries found 30% of old people across Britain were considered at risk of poverty in 2007. The percentage is marginally higher in Scotland than in England and Wales. This compares with 10% in the Netherlands, 11% in Sweden, 18% in Bulgaria, 19% in Romania and just 6% in Hungary. The Czech Republic has the lowest rate with just one in 20 pensioners in poverty while Cyprus has the highest, with a rate of one in two.

The authors of the EU-commissioned report said the figures depended on a number of factors, including the adequacy of a country's pension system.

The average wage in the UK is currently £462 a week. By contrast, pensioners who qualify for the full basic state allowance are entitled to £95.25 a week, of £152.30 per couple if they are married. Up to £34.75 (£46.15 for couples) extrea may be awarded to those with limited incomes, but campaigners for the elderly say many are reluctant to apply for the additional cash because they object to the indignity of means-testing.

A report published last year revealed a third of pensioners live on their own and have little contact with their friends and family. It also found isolation among the elderly is on the increase. This, combined with increasing levels of financial hardship, have left many feeling vulnerable, lonely and unable to cope.

Angela Eagle, minister for pension and the ageing society, said the Labour government is committed to pensioners. She added 'Help like pension credit, winter fuel payments, free health care, bus travel and TV licences mean even the least well-off UK pensioners are still better off than the poorest pensioners in other countries.'

Ms Eagle's spinning the usual labour propaganda. Pension credit is exceptionally intrusive and many feel they do not want anyone to know such personal matters - therefore many do not apply. Winter fuel payments are acceptable but certainly do not cover the average winter bills. Is health care not free for all? Free bus travel is fine if you live in an area which has reasonable public transport. For those who do not live in or around cities it is of little use. I do not have a bus pass for that reason. TV licences? Surely she knows that free TV licences are only given to the over 75s.

The problem is the basic state pension is inadequate. Many women of my generation who were married and paid the 'married woman's stamp' receive only a fraction of the basic pension and have to reply on handouts to get by. This can and does cause worry and embarrassment which in turn can affect their health. Many pensioners in Scotland have much higher heating bills than their southern neighbours.

Will Westminster take note of this report and take action? I shan't hold my breath.

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