Articles and Speeches

Mistreating the Elderly
02-Dec-05, Windsor Express Article.

"Having forgotten my coat and gloves on a tour around the beautiful and historic Savill Gardens I can confirm that the cold winter weather is definitely upon us!

The indications are that this winter will be a particularly cold one and I am not surprised when I receive letters from worried pensioners who are finding it hard to afford their local council tax and heating bills in particular.

It strikes me that something is wrong, when despite the Governments pronouncements, residents who have worked hard all their lives to save for their retirement find themselves in the undignified position of having to fill out reams intrusive paperwork to prove that they are entitled to benefits in the later years.

I have always believed that the way we treat our children and elderly is a reflection of how civilised our society really is.

It cannot be right that the elderly are forced to complete complicated forms to account for each and every penny of their savings and assets to receive minimal benefits which they have earned. This is surely not the sign of a civilised society. Indeed in many cases for those with learning difficulties it is tantamount to torture.

Means testing can be degrading and demeaning and it’s no wonder so many people fail to claim what is rightfully theirs.

I am more determined than ever to continue the campaign for simpler, less intrusive support for the vulnerable and elderly."