A Government minister witnessed the challenges faced by older people during a visit to Worcester.

Minister for pensions, Paul Maynard MP, recently went to the headquarters of Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire (H&W) at Malvern Gate.

Age UK H&W provides a range of services to the older population of Worcestershire and Herefordshire, offering support through benefits access, applications assistance, and other essential information.

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He met with the charity's officials, volunteers and members of the computer café to gain a deeper understanding of the realities facing older adults in both counties.

During his meeting with CEO Julia Neal and staff members Sonya Murray and Sarah Turner, the minister was given insights into the issues aging people face, including navigating online sites and completing lengthy forms.

Mr Maynard then visited the charity's computer café, where he was introduced by social inclusion and wellbeing manager, Caroline Savage, to the volunteers and members who have benefitted from the sessions to improve their digital skills.

Ms Neal said: "The Age UK H&W Information & Advice Service helps over 12,000 people a year with a range of queries, many of whom need help to be able to apply for the benefits that they are entitled to.

“Our clients find the support that we provide, including practical support from the Computer Café and other initiatives, is invaluable and tell us that without it they would not be able to navigate the complex processes involved.

"We feel passionately that older people should not be disadvantaged in a world where those skills are required for everyday activities like parking and banking as well as accessing benefits.”

Mr Maynard said: "It was wonderful to visit Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire (H&W) to experience firsthand the important work they do to support our pensioners.

“We are always looking for more innovative ways to reach out to pensioners, and it was great to hear about all the ways Age UK H&W tackle these challenges. It was also good to discuss our recent Pension Credit trials targeting those likely to be eligible for this vital support.”

The Information and Advice service by Age UK H&W has helped people claim £561,407 worth of unclaimed benefits in the last quarter of 2023 alone.

The initiative is primarily dependent on the charity’s fundraising ventures, donations, and a grant from the Eveson Trust, but receives no regular funding.