16 May 2007
Retirement specialist Homewise has revealed that according to its recent survey, one in ten pensioners are currently living without any central heating.
In addition, 800,000 lie without many of the mod-cons most consumers take for granted, including fridge-freezers and washing machines.
Homewise's Mark Neal told the Daily Express that the results of the organisation's survey were "staggering".
"This is further evidence of pensioner poverty, with many elderly people saddled by growing debts and inadequate pension provision," he said. "With such a low disposable income the prospect of spending hundreds, let alone thousands, on household appliances just isn't an option."
Gordon Lishman, Director General of Age Concern, also expressed his concern, saying: "By any reasonable standard, fridges and washing machines, not to mention central heating, are not optional extras, but basic necessities of life and living."
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