The newly-merged charity is launching a campaign, called More Money in Your Pocket, to help older people receive the benefits that are rightfully theirs.

Michelle Mitchell, Charity Director, says: 'Many older people are being pushed to extreme measures to cope financially. The Government cannot sit by while older people skip meals and put their health at risk.

'The Government cannot sit by while older people put their health at risk'

'The challenge to Government is to ensure that older people aren’t forgotten. Investment to stimulate the economy must also benefit them. 

'In addition to any package of support for older people, the Government must commit to rolling out automatic payment of benefits.

'In the meantime, our More Money in Your Pocket campaign will help many pensioners get the benefits they’re entitled to, which will at least help ease their financial burden.'

The More Money in Your Pocket campaign will provide information, advice and support about benefits directly to older people.

Read the Age Concern and Help the Aged Budget wish list