Charity unveils older Londoners' election manifesto

Elderly residents in a London nursing home

Social care services must not be cut, the charity has warned

A charity has asked contenders for London council elections to ensure that the public spending cuts "axe" does not fall on services for elderly people.

Age Concern London is launching the Older People's Local Election Manifesto, asking councils to continue to deliver health and care services.

Better care services, learning opportunities and continued free travel are the charity's other main demands.

More than one million people over the age of 60 live in London.

'Vital resources'

The manifesto called for the continuation of the Freedom Pass, which provides free travel for people receiving a state pension.

Samantha Mauger, chief executive of Age Concern London, said: "We know the national economic situation will affect local councils, but they still need to deliver services that meet older Londoners' wishes and needs.

"We call on local councils to work with us to ensure older people all over London receive consistent, high quality health and social care services, regardless of age or circumstance, and to recognise their role and contribution in supporting local communities."

Lynn Strother, from Greater London Forum for Older People (GLF), said: "Older people are one of London's most vital resources.

"In the coming difficult times, local councils need to listen and include local older people's forums in designing and delivering services."