Cost-of-living is key concern for older people in Llandrindod Wells

Members of a Powys pensioner group have voiced their concerns about effect of the cost-of-living crisis on the elderly.

The Llandrindod Wells Pensioners Group has around 50 members, who meet monthly at the Royal British Legion, and they voiced their worries during the visit of Deputy Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Kelly Davies

The group provides an opportunity for older people to get out and about, socialise and meet new people, and hear about a wide range of subjects from guest speakers.

The Deputy Commissioner said she visited the group to hear directly from members about the issues and challenges affecting their lives.

OTHER NEWS:

Members raised concerns about the cost-of-living crisis and the impact this will have on their health and well-being as they head into the winter months.

They also highlighted how difficult it can be to find information and advice about the support and financial entitlements available - in particular, difficulties faced by older people who are digitally excluded, as well as issues relating to getting transport for hospital appointments.

Deputy Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Kelly Davies, said: “I’d like to thank the group in Llandrindod Wells for giving me such a warm welcome and for talking to me so openly and honestly about the issues they are currently facing.

“Unsurprisingly, there was a great deal of discussion about the cost-of-living crisis and what this will mean for older people in the months ahead, as well as the difficulties members often face when trying to find information and advice.

“From talking to the group it was clear that phone-based services – such as the Commissioner’s Advice and Assistance Service – are still greatly valued when people are seeking help and support.”

Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Helena Herklots CBE, said these concerns are widely held across Wales.

“The issues highlighted by the group in Llandrindod Wells reflect what many older people have told me, and I know there is huge concern about the cost-of-living crisis and the impact this will have on people’s lives,” said Ms Herklots.

“That’s why I’m continuing to call on the UK and Welsh governments to take further action immediately so that older people get the support they need.”