Kathy Lawrence
Calls to end the Carer’s Allowance work/benefit trap
The financial problems facing unpaid carers have finally been recognised publicly, alongside calls to fix the system that is punishing people for caring and working to support themselves. In an editorial, the Guardian refers to what’s been described as a ‘catch out culture’ at the Department of Work and Pensions. Any carer earning over £151 […]
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What now for social care funding and winter fuel payments?
There are two features of the announcement from the incoming Chancellor Rachel Reeves in July 2024 that will particularly affect older people. Winter fuel payments Payments to help with the cost of energy have been made annually in the autumn to those of pension age. This has not been means tested to date, so recipients […]
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Retirement planning is getting harder as cost of living bites
Difficulties in retirement financial planning in the current economic climate are highlighted in the latest Scottish Widows Retirement Report. Contributions are falling, expected retirement ages are rising, and the likelihood of enjoying a ‘comfortable’ retirement is in doubt for some. Here are the key takeaways and recommendations from the report. Pension Contributions and Financial Wellbeing […]
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A comprehensive guide to tree maintenance
Collaborative Post Trees can be a real plus point for any garden. As well as looking beautiful, they provide much-needed shade for the hot summer days. Humans aren’t the only beneficiaries of trees – they are important to wildlife as well. Caring for your trees is important for keeping them healthy and long-lasting. It may […]
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The Impact Being a Truck Driver Can Have on Your Family
Collaborative Post Being a truck driver in the US might appeal to some people. You can drive an enormous machine, and some individuals appreciate that. You can carry goods across the country, so you’re performing a vital service. Trucks can easily weigh 80,000 pounds, so you must exercise caution while driving one. You must also […]
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Convenience and Flexibility: The Advantages of Private Health Insurance Alongside the NHS
Collaborative Post Navigating healthcare options in the UK can sometimes feel like a maze, especially when weighing the benefits of private health insurance alongside the National Health Service (NHS). While the NHS provides comprehensive and largely free healthcare to residents, there are instances where private health insurance offers additional advantages that can significantly enhance your […]
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Hobbies that Add Years to Life and Life to Years
Collaborative Post If you’re approaching retirement, then you might be wondering what you’re going to end up doing with all the new-found free time you might have to contend with. Finding the right hobby might have two benefits. Firstly, you’ll enjoy a much-improved quality of life. Secondly, and perhaps more surprisingly, you might actually be […]
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Can we compare healthcare performance across the four nations of the UK?
Retiring to another part of the UK is an appealing thought for many of us. However, ensuring the facilities are in place to support a safe and enjoyable life is important. There are many issues to be considered before making a move, and one of those is access to good NHS healthcare. Recently, there’s been […]
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Nationwide phases out paper passbooks – worrying for older customers or not?
Nationwide Building Society is due to eliminate passbooks in their current form starting February 2025. This move is said to be part of a broader initiative to modernise its services. Current Status of Passbooks New Accounts: Nationwide has already stopped offering new passbook accounts. Usage: Only 2% of Nationwide’s 16 million customers, roughly 120,000 members, […]
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What you need to do for the UK digital telephone switchover
The UK’s telephone network is undergoing a major transformation. Here’s how you can prepare for the digital switchover and ensure a smooth transition, especially for older and vulnerable individuals. Here’s a quick explanation of what’s happening and why, and steps you can take to ensure your older family and friends stay safe and secure after […]
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