HC Deb 07 October 2003 vol 411 cc227-8W
Mr. Webb

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the locations of the local pension advice surgeries are. [128742]

Malcolm Wicks

The Pension Service provides a wide range of information and support on benefits to older people through our network of local service surgeries.

Local Pension Service surgeries are held on a regular basis across all areas of the country, often in partnership with other organisations such as local authorities and Age Concern. The latest data available indicate that there are currently 2,650 regular drop in and appointment surgeries in place nationally.

Details of the most convenient surgery for individual pensioners and their carers can be obtained by telephoning 0845 60 60 2 65.

The Pension Service wrote to all hon. Members at the end of July providing a full list of surgeries and opening times in individual constituencies; however I am happy to list here the regular surgeries that take place in the Northavon area:

  • South Gloucestershire Deaf Association
  • Kingswood Library
  • Patchway Community Centre
  • Pucklechurch Sheltered House
  • Thornbury Library
  • Yate Library
  • Frenchay Hospital
  • Southmead Hospital
  • Avon Crescent Sheltered Housing
  • Marshfield Church Hall
  • Withymead
  • The Brockridge Centre.