Lesley Searley (Advertiser November 28) rightly pointed out the inadequacy of the state retirement pension even when it's topped up by extra means-tested benefits.

She quoted the situation her father found himself in, getting extra benefit in one hand only to find most of it taken away from the other.

Age Concern hasn't been standing idly by. We campaign for an adequate income in later life for all older people and to end pensioner poverty. Older people have the right to an income that provides an adequate standard of living; and to share in the rising prosperity of the nation. We should not have to choose between food and warmth; we should have the income to stay healthy, sociable and active. And we've been in touch with Lesley to see how we can work together.

We don't like means tested top ups that only work if people claim them. On the other hand they do mean people should finish up with more each week.

Half of all Swindon's pensioners could be entitled to extra help through Pension Credit but for most people it means having to make a claim. We have information about what you could be entitled to and we help to make claims.

Our free booklet "making money easy" about benefits and pensions has just been joined by another one "fight the freeze" all about the help that's available to keep warm this winter.

Adver readers can call us on 692166 or drop in to 14 Milton Road between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday to pick up a copy of these and lots more information. And to join our campaign to make pensions work for all older people, give me a call too.

Jo Osorio

Director

Age Concern Swindon