MP for the Stroud district, David Drew, is backing a petition to save free TV licences for elderly people.
Mr Drew also wants to make sure that many older people continue to receive a free TV licence after 2020 by claiming the Pension Credit to which they are entitled. The MP has put together a guide to Pension Credit, available on his website.
“It is estimated that 1.3 million poorer over-75s are eligible for Pension Credit but do not claim it, which is why I’ve put together a guide,” said Mr Drew.
“The BBC says it will now means test free TV licences for over-75s.
“For many older people television is a social lifeline and you cannot means test loneliness.”
Mr Drew added that the change is particularly poignant during Loneliness Awareness Week (ends June 21).
“Forty per cent of older people say that TV is their main form of companionship,” said the MP.
David be joining the Great Get Together event in Cam Youth and Community Centre on Sunday from 12 noon to 3pm. David’s caseworkers will be holding a mobile surgery at the Bank Café, Dursley on Thursday, June 27 from 1.30-3pm.
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