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Help is at hand

Apr 26 2009 Sunday Sun

AT a time when every little helps we want to ensure older people are accessing everything to which they are entitled.

Many pensioners in the North East are simply unaware of the range of services and benefits which are available.

People aged 60 and over are entitled to winter fuel payment; a senior railcard costing £24, giving one third off most rail fares; a national bus pass giving free, off-peak local bus travel and free prescriptions and eye tests.

People aged 75 or more can get a free TV licence and pensioners over 79 can get a free passport. From this year, every person aged 60 and over can use swimming baths free of charge. Those pensioners getting Pension Credit should also be eligible for Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit (as long as savings are below £16,000) and cold weather payments.

But some older people not getting Pension Credit may still be able to get some help towards Council Tax.

In addition, those over 65 may be entitled to Attendance Allowance if they need help with personal care due to physical or mental disability.

For further information contact your local council, Citizens’s Advice Bureau or MP – councillors GED BELL, MARGARET CARTER and STEPHEN LAMBERT, Kenton, Newcastle.

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