Hardship funds should be established to protect people affected by changes in Housing Benefit. In Scotland the homes of 486,000 people over 60 require some kind of repair. The grant system for improvements and adaptations is complex and take-up amongst older people is low. Care and Repair projects have proved to be a valuable, popular and effective way of tackling repairs and maintenance, through grant aid, for older owner occupiers. New councils should maintain, or establish, Care and Repair projects, as an essential element of Care in the Community.
Low incomes mean that many older people are unable to heat their homes adequately.
Accessible information and advice services should be provided to older people to help them maximise their income. Independent advice on housing and energy issues should be locally available. Means-tested benefits provide a very low standard of living. Disability benefits do not cover the extra costs of disabilities. Charging policies should not widen the poverty trap, or force people with disabilities further into poverty.