In the UK, there is a wealth of freebies and discounts available to people over 65. Unfortunately, recent research has revealed that an alarmingly high number of older adults are neglecting these opportunities.
Unclaimed savings could be costing them thousands of dollars each year. Here are the best methods for claiming them.
Free bus travel
If you’re over 65 and live in the UK, then you could potentially qualify for free bus travel. These passes are issued by local councils and can be used on buses throughout England or Wales.
The Older Person’s Travel Pass offers free bus travel in England to those over state pensionable age or with disabilities after 9:30am Monday-Friday and all day on weekends and bank holidays, operated by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM).
One month prior to your eligibility date, you can apply for an older person’s bus pass online or in person. We’ll post the pass directly to you. In order to do so, please provide proof of age and residency (such as a passport-sized photo).
Free gas safety check
If you’re over 65, a free gas safety check from your energy supplier or local authority is available to keep you secure and reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, fires and explosions in your home.
A gas safety check can save you money on your bills. A qualified Gas Safe registered engineer will verify that all appliances such as your boiler and gas fire are working correctly, helping to avoid hazardous scenarios like carbon monoxide poisoning and gas leaks.
Free eye tests
In the UK, everyone aged 60 or over can access free prescriptions and NHS eye tests. Depending on your individual situation, you may even qualify for help with dental treatment costs as well.
If you are over 65 and having trouble seeing, it’s wise to get your eyes checked out. You can determine if you qualify for a free test by speaking to an optician or visiting the NHS website.
Free handyperson service
Your local council’s free handyperson service can be a lifesaver. Not only do they provide home energy checks and DWP benefits checks for free, but Thames Water discounts as well. Who knows? Maybe they’ll even build you some flat pack furniture or two!
Signing up for the service only takes 10 minutes and you can expect a callout within two hours of your phone ringing. Most of these services are based in Salford, but they operate throughout much of northern England.
Free garden club membership
If you’re a gardener at heart or simply enjoy exploring your local park or greenspace, then council freebies may have caught your attention. In exchange for some money-saving vouchers, they offer free horticultural advice (or at least a leaflet), free garden show tickets, discounted membership to RHS gardens and even free magazines! Keeping up with the latest gardening trends and innovations will keep you at the top of your game long into the future.
Free prescriptions
If you’re over 65 and living in the UK, you may qualify for free prescriptions if you meet certain criteria or possess a medical exemption. However, the Government is currently consulting on changes that would align the upper age exemption for NHS prescription charges with State Pension age (SPA).
Many in their 60s who are economically active and more able to afford prescriptions may find this burdensome. Additionally, those caring for family or disabled friends may have additional responsibilities which prevent them from working.
Free supermarket discount
Britain is facing an increasing cost-of-living crisis, so many supermarkets are offering discounts for people over 65 to help offset rising expenses. Iceland, for instance, gives seniors a 10% discount on their shopping every Tuesday.
This offer is valid at all of The Food Warehouse branches and all of its stores, making it a great way to save on weekly groceries. Simply bring proof of age (such as a driving license or senior bus/rail card) to receive the discount and take advantage of this great offer.