Every year up to 5.5 billion in Benefit goes unclaimed by older people.
Are you one of them?
Please call 0800 169 6565 to find out.
Age UK is campaigning to prevent the avoidable tragedy of thousands of older people dying unnecessarily in the winter months in England and Wales. This is often because we can't afford to heat our homes and we are more susceptible to illnesses caused by cold and damp.
The latest figures show that last winter (2009-10) there were 23,100 additional deaths among people over the age of 65 in England and Wales. Over the last five years, there have been an average 25,000 additional winter deaths every year.
The cost to society is enormous. For every additional winter death, there are also around 8 admissions to hospital, 32 visits to outpatient care and 30 social services calls.
This is a national tragedy. Many of the deaths and much of the ill health are avoidable. Yet there is no emergency plan to try to prevent this. And those of us on low income, struggling to pay our fuel bills, are most at risk.
To join the campaign, visit the Age UK website and click 'Get Involved'.
There are two new numbers to remember to get help in your area:
Police 101
NHS 111
You should use 101 to report crime and other concerns that do not require an emergency response. For example if your car has been stolen, property damaged, to report a minor traffic collision, speak to your local officers or make general enquiries. 101 replaces the 0345 123 3333 number. For more information about 101, visit http://www.derbyshire.police.uk/
You should uses 111 for urgent medical problems that are not emergencies needing a 999 response. You will be assessed over the phone and directed to the most appropriate service. During surgery hours you should still contact your own GP, and for emergencies dial 999. 111 replaces the NHS Direct number 0845 4647, and will be rolled out countywide in the new year. For more information about 111, visit http://www.derbyshirecounty.nhs.uk/
