Older age groups will be hit most by forthcoming cuts

Over-75s are expected to take a bigger hit than any other age group from the Government’s forthcoming Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR). Cuts could equate to a third of their income.

Independent research carried out on behalf of Age UK has shown that an average household containing someone over 75 will lose some £2,200 per year in public services by the year 2014-15 – roughly a sixth of their household income.

However, for the poorest over-75s it will mean a loss of a third of their household income.

It casts into doubt the claims of the coalition government that the cuts are as ‘fair’ as they claim, as the poorest may suffer from the cuts in public spending.

The slightly younger 65-74 age group do not fare much better. The research indicates that they will lose £1,870 worth of services – equating to around 29% of their net household income.

Age UK believes that all members of society will suffer from the cuts, but the most seriously affected will be the oldest and young families. Age UK has called on the government to admit that budget cuts for the older age groups could have a devastating effect on the frail and vulnerable, putting lives at risk.

Michelle Mitchell, Age UK’s Charity Director, said: “The Chancellor will not quickly be forgiven if he fails to support the oldest and frailest who rely on public services the most.”

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