Pensioner inflation rates ten times higher than non-pensioners

In response to IFS figures published today, which show that although inflation rates are falling among the general population, people aged over 60 are currently facing higher inflation rates, Gordon Lishman, Director General of Age Concern, said: "Despite inflation falling generally, these figures clearly show pensioners, on average, are facing annual inflation rates ten times higher than the rest of the population.

"As younger people enjoy the benefits of the lowest levels of inflation for decades, older people still find much of their income is swallowed up by high food and fuel bills, forcing many to make drastic cut-backs.

"Even the five percent pension up-rating this April intended to help pensioners won't be enough to keep up with the inflation increases seen so far this year for anyone over 70.

"Yet despite concern about costs, up to £5 billion of benefits goes unclaimed by pensioners every year. We would strongly urge older people struggling to make ends meet to ensure they claim the money due to them by contacting their local Age Concern."