Sandra Gidley

Liberal Democrats | Romsey

Rebranding Tired Scheme Won't Help Elderly- Gidley

Commenting on a programme called 'Link-Age Plus' announced today by the ODPM intended to help deliver services to disadvantaged older people, Sandra Gidley MP, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Older People, said:

"The Government are again recycling a tired policy. Link-Age was launched with the same fanfare in 2004, but 2 million pensioners are still below the poverty line and benefit take up is still embarrassing low.

"It's no good adding the word 'plus' to a failed initiative and pretending it will make a difference.

"£10m for this 'Link Age Plus' scheme is a drop in the ocean compared to the swingeing cuts the government is forcing on the 'Supporting People' scheme, which helps support vulnerable people like the elderly.

"The real problems - Council Tax, complex means-tested pensions and benefits, and cuts in adult social services - won't be solved by rebranding."