The older person’s organisation, Independent Age, recent sent their Director of Policy and Influencing, Morgan Vine along to take part in BBC Radio 4’s Money Box to discuss research showing that increasing the take-up of key financial support could lift 280,000 older people out of poverty.
Listeners also heard from Valerie, who shared the reality of living on a low income. She described how worries about money had gradually made her world smaller. But after receiving an Independent Age leaflet and calling their helpline (0800 319 6789), Valerie was able to increase her income by almost £400 a month.
“I can now have a basic decent meal and I’m able to socialise and see my family on the mainland. If someone says, ‘Would you like a coffee?’, I can now say, ‘I’d love one!’.”
Valerie’s story is a powerful reminder of the difference that advice and support can make. Listen back to the programme here. Morgan and Valerie feature from 4 minutes 15 seconds.
