Telford OAPs air concerns at meeting with Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Debbie Abrahams
Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Debbie Abrahams has met pensioners in Telford and listened to their concerns.
More than 20 pensioners turned out to The Wakes Community Centre in Oakengates yesterday to meet the Labour MP.
Pensions, social care and the winter fuel allowance were among the issues raised.
Mrs Abrahams said listening to people’s concerns was important to be able to better shape future policies and add detail to Labour’s manifesto.
She said: “It brings to life some of the policy development issues we need to be addressing. We are going right across the country, all members of the shadow cabinet, so that we can put the meat on the bones of the manifesto.”
San Sekhon, of Leegomery, turned up at the meeting to voice her opinions. The 67-year-old said she believed the winter fuel allowance should be increased and the retirement age decreased.
She added: “It’s been useful to talk to her. I think she listened.”
Paul Ferguson, of Oakengates, raised concerns about the need for pensioners to complete online forms for their pensions. He said: “You have to complete an online form to get your pension.
“It’s a concern for people who are not computer literate. There should be a paper alternative or an office people can go to and speak to someone.”
Janet Davies, 66, of Ketley Bank, said she believed pensioners should have more help with paying their rent and council tax bills.
She added: “I’m against paying tax on pensions as well. It should be tax free. It shouldn’t be termed as a benefit. How can it be a benefit when you’ve worked for it?”
Telford & Wrekin Councillor Gilly Reynolds, who represents Oakengates and Ketley Bank, was there to welcome the MP.
She said: “It’s fantastic that Debbie has taken the time to listen to local people’s concerns. It will shape future Labour Party policy.”
Kuldip Sahota, who ran against Telford MP Lucy Allan as the Labour candidate in this year’s general election, was also at the event.
He said: “It’s great that Debbie has come down to answer questions and hold the government to account in what they said during the election time.”
