PENSIONERS Forum Wales is a national forum of older people which works for the benefit of all pensioners in Wales.

We have published a manifesto which calls on candidates in the general election on May 7 to pay attention to the needs of older voters.

Among the issues which need close attention are:

We want an adequate state retirement pension for pensioners. The new proposed level of future state pension needs to include all existing pensioners and must match inflation. This will protect people from poverty and provide an income that allows choice, opportunity and quality of life without reliance on benefits.

We want an end to all means testing. Means testing is costly and demeaning and it discriminates against people who have occupational pensions and those who have saved all their lives.

We want an end to fuel poverty. This will never happen while profits are more important than people. Older people need access to affordable energy to enable them to live in comfort. Consideration should be given to older people’s limited fixed income, health needs and the amount of time they spend at home. More information should be made available on insulation and home maintenance.

You can get a copy of this manifesto by writing to Pensioners Forum Wales, T? John Pathy, 13/14 Neptune Court, Vanguard Way, Cardiff CF24 5PJ, or by calling 029 2043 1555.

Nancy Davies

Chair

Pensioners Forum Wales