Recently I was asked to complete a form requesting Income Supplement for all the residents of Wick House. I did so, and I received, in my name, a Girocheque (backdated) for £75. I was also promised an extra £25 weekly on my pension allotment of £16.80. I honestly thought the money was mine, but I couldn't have been more wrong. It all goes to Swindon Borough Council.

If it was not for me, why send it to me? I am merely a resident. I could certainly have done with it, or even part of it. It would have helped me greatly, as I get only £16.80 weekly out of my pension, and with that I am supposed to buy clothes, footwear, pay the phone bill and papers, have my hair shampooed weekly and various other items.

I am one of the lucky ones: I have a daughter, a son-in-law and two married grandsons. One grandson comes every week and buys me all I need for my fridge, the other buys my clothes and my daughter sees that I have everything I need. It does not seem right that my family should have to reimburse me.

Many residents are not so lucky. It seems no one cares about the oldies.

(Mrs) Frances Bartlett

Wick House

Swindon