Independent Age Chief Executive Joanna Elson, CBE said:

“The Work and Pension’s Committee has highlighted the urgent truth; the UK needs a strategic approach to tackle pensioner poverty. With millions of older people living in financial hardship, now is the time for action. The older people Independent Age speaks to are living on desperately small incomes, forcing them to make drastic cutbacks. They are going to bed in hats and coats, eating one small meal a day and washing less to save on water. This is not right.

“We warmly welcome the Committee’s recommendations and are pleased to have contributed to this important inquiry, alongside the many people in later life who shared their views directly with the Committee. The voices of older people have been heard throughout this inquiry and the tangible and impactful recommendations speak to the changes older people in poverty need to see now and in the future.

“Our own research highlights the importance of people having an adequate income in later life, particularly those reliant on just the State Pension and social security system. Also essential is that everyone receives the financial entitlements they are eligible for, and that policies are in place to support people on a low income pay their rent and household bills. We have also long campaigned for an independent Commissioner for Older People and are pleased to see the Committee recognise the need for this role.

“We are ready to continue working with the Committee and the UK Government to implement the much needed recommendations contained in this report.”