Pensioners across the UK are reckoning with increased costs and a state pension which does not keep up with inflation. With energy bills set to soar this year, many retirees do not know where the money to cover costs will come from.
Express.co.uk spoke to Maureen, a 77-year-old woman from Essex who lives alone with her cat.
Maureen expressed her worries about the rising cost of living, and especially her energy bills – which her provider has told her will increase substantially this year.
She said: “It’s all quite scary. It isn’t something I imagined I would have to worry about it old age.
“I put the kettle on and the smart meter clicks, and there it is up in the red, showing how much you’re using.
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As a result of this, she has suffered back and hip problems which eventually led to her being medically retired.
Fortunately, a carer visits her twice a week, but with rising costs, she is frightened about needing more help but not being able to afford it.
She continued: “At some point, a lot of older…
