Responding to the annual statistical review from the Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS) which shows that for the first time, clients over 60 have the highest levels of debt, averaging £29,642, David Sinclair, head of policy for Help the Aged, says: 

'Pensioners are constantly facing above inflation price rises - coupled with a fixed low income, many older people struggle financially more and more, year after year. With one in five pensioners living in poverty and an increasing number of older people in debt, the future looks anything but rosy for older people in the UK.  

'Financial worries can have a devastating effect on older people’s general health and wellbeing. But worryingly today’s findings do not come as a shock. In partnership with Barclays, Help the Aged will be releasing a debt report by Bristol University next week which will take a closer look at the current credit concerns facing millions of older people on low incomes.'

www.helptheaged.org.uk 18 March 2008