What's the Labour Government ever done for Pensioners and Pensions?

What’s the Labour Government ever done for Pensioners or Pensions?

Twelve years ago the public sought change from tiresome Tory government. Since being elected the Labour government has helped ensure that today pensioners and those of the future can enjoy dignity and security in their retirement, thanks to the work of our Labour government.

The Tory government shamble

· In the dark days of Tory government, the Tories misled millions of workers by persuading them to opt out of SERP’s (Supplemental Executive Retirement Plans) and company pensions. As a result 1.5 million people were miss-sold private pensions and subsequently are now worse off.

· And by 1997 as a result of years of avoidance 2.7 million pensioners were living in poverty, with many having to survive on as little as £69 a week.

Labour gives decent pensions

· The minimum income guarantee for all pensioners is way above that of the gloom of past Tory government’s. Now they represent a minimum of £124 a week for single pensioners and a minimum of £189 a week for couples. That is an increase of 100%, above the rate of inflation.

· Basic state pensions have continued to rise under the Labour government. Having risen above the rate of inflation ever since 2000. And by the next parliament they will rise in line with average earnings.

· Unlike the Tories who did the complete opposite and reduced the value of the state pensions when they were in power.

Pensioners are better off under Labour

· In real terms the average pensioner is now £1,500 better off than they were in 1997 when Labour had finally gained power.

· And the poorest third of pensioners are benefiting even further under the Labour government being £2,200 better off than under Tory government

More people qualify now

· Thanks to Labour’s reforms now more people qualify for the full pensions. The qualification for full state pensions is now reduced from 44 years for men and from 39 years for women to 30 years for both. And now give more entitlement to parents and carers.

Further Benefits

· Keeping pensioners warm and safe in their own homes is a priority, under the Winter Fuel Allowance in 2008 the over 60’s received £250 and the over 80’s received £400 to ensure they are able to afford the fuel bills through those gruelling winter months

· The Labour government understands how the simple benefits can go a long way to help the lives of everyone. And pensioners have been able to profit from free eye tests and free local bus travel for the over 60’s, plus free off-peak national bus travel. These can all help towards piece of mind and savings on those travel costs.

· Also 4.5 million people over 75 have benefited from free TV licences.

Labour has ensured that pensioners are not forgotten like under the out dated Tory government’s of past. Labour have ensured not only that pensioners receive a decent pension but also the care and safety needed to brave the cold winter months, have regular eye checks and free bus travel. Labour take steps forward from the decisions of a backwards Conservative party. If you would like further information on your rights as a pensioner and your pension here are some important websites and numbers you can call:

Pension credit helpline:

0845 99 1234 or www.thepensionservice.gov.uk

Winter Fuel Allowance helpline:

0845 9 15 15 15 or www.thepensionservice.gov.uk/winterfuel

Free bus travel and over services: www.direct.gov.uk/en/over50s