§ Mr. McGradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will launch a major and continuing publicity and information exercise aimed at the elderly to encourage them in the take-up of their rights and entitlements to benefits.
§ Miss WiddecombeWe have no plans for a single campaign of the kind described, but we continue to consider the particular needs of elderly people.
Recent initiatives include a new leaflet for older pensioners, linking benefits at significant life changes is being produced with the help of agencies.
Advertising campaigns supported by leaflets and posters for cold weather payments are mounted whenever and wherever severe weather conditions occur.
More general leaflets, for elderly people on low incomes and who are sick and disabled are distributed to post offices, including a leaflet on what to do when someone dies. We have also redesigned claim forms to benefit elderly people.
31WAgencies, such as citizens advice bureaux are kept informed through a mailing list. GPs, hospitals and clinics; day centres and homes, Age Concern; ministers of religion; chemists; libraries, also receive information.
A new leaflet, "Caring for Someone?", FB31, was issued in November 1991 for long-term sick and disabled people.
A new helpline—0253 858858—for war pensioners came into service last month, supported by a new leaflet to publicise the service.
On 2 and 9 April 1992 special BBC/DSS programmes for the elderly will be screened by "Advice Shop".
The BBC select—night-time service—will broadcast a 15-minute programme with information for carers of elderly people.
The Department will continue to give specific attention to the ongoing information needs of elderly people.