Labour values the contributions that retired people have made to our society and recognises the need to support them throughout retirement.

Eastbourne is a potentially wonderful place to retire in but so many retired people are struggling. Many of you need help to get out of bed and with washing but you don’t qualify for Attendance Allowance. Many of you find the bus services unreliable and expensive. Some of you are struggling on pensions or cannot afford to retire or that you are having to top up your pensions with Universal Credit Tragically some of you are dying alone uncared for or your families are giving up work to care for you.

This is not what should happen in retirement in the 5th richest country in the world. Labour in Government will:

¤ Protect the over 75 free TV licences
¤ Protect over 60’s free bus passes
¤ Keep the winter fuel allowance
¤ Triple lock pensions

And. Labour in Government will set up a NATIONAL CARE SERVICE.  Free personal care will be provided to pensioners – getting in/out of bed, washing and dressing as part of combined Health and Social care package for older age.

Speaking about this at Labour Party Conference 19, John McDonnell said:

“The truth is our social care sector is a national scandal. The next Labour government will introduce PERSONAL CARE FREE AT THE POINT OF USE for in England, funded not through the Conservatives’ gimmicky insurance schemes, but, like the NHS and our other essentials, through general taxation. Those in need would get help with everyday tasks. Nothing is more important than dignity in retirement for those who have built our country and given younger generations the world we live in today”.

This move will save the NHS £4.5bn a year and save hospital beds according to the IPPR think tank.

Eastbourne Labour Party