Duane Farrell, Head of Policy, Research and Communications at Help the Aged, said: 'Statistics show that single pensioner households are at high risk from poverty and we have been lobbying for recognition of this for some time now. 

'With 35 per cent of single pensioners in Northern Ireland living on less than £90 per week this proposed discount is a useful approach to protecting the most disadvantaged older people from falling into poverty through the new rating system.'

SeniorLine can offer advice to older people experiencing difficulties in the rate relief system

SeniorLine, the Help the Aged telephone advice line, can offer advice and advocacy to older people who are experiencing difficulties in the rate relief system. Call free on 0808 808 7575.