Protecting Scotland’s
Pensioners
www.cspascotland.org.uk
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Scotland’s Manifesto
www.cspascotland.org.uk
[email protected]
CSPA Scotland Branch looks after the interest of all retired civil servants in Scotland
and campaigns on issues of interest to pensioners generally
Fairness and Equality
Fairness – Disabled and Older People, must be treated equally, but also have to be treated according to their limitations. Whilst a healthy younger person must expect an Older
Person or someone with Disabilities to be treated as an equal with themselves, it is inconceivable that a disabled or elderly person could be treated merely as an equal with
someone who is younger and fitter – regard has to be given to their disabilities. Fairness means giving the elderly and disabled preferential treatment.
“Fairness implies being just, and not sticking to the concept of equality even though, some people may be lacking opportunities and yet be distributed resources
equally.” (www.differencebetween.com)
Equality - Equality means no discrimination irrespective of race, colour, gender or creed. The law must be the same for all – rich and poor alike, disabled and healthy. Access for
all – there are still many buildings and transport where disabled and elderly are denied access because of steep steps. Equality must embrace the concept of Fairness in order
that elderly and disabled do not feel marginalized and disillusioned, as this can lead to depression, and that can kill.
Single Tier State Pension – protection of Triple Lock
It is essential to maintain the triple lock guarantee for both the State Pension and the New Single Tier Pension.
However to remove this two tier system the State Pension should be progressively increased over time until it corresponds with the Single Tier Pension and
thus removing the need for means testing.
Protection of Universal Benefits
It is essential to retain the Winter Fuel Allowance to ensure that the most vulnerable are not adversely effected by the harsh Scottish weather. Free travel concession is also
essential to ensure that all communities, particularly rural areas, benefit from the associated spending
Scrapping of Personal Independence Payment and Maintain Current Level of Disability Living Allowance increasing
every year by inflation
Abolition of the Bedroom Tax
Given the severe shortage of smaller properties available for downsizing, it is unjust that those in properties deemed too large should be penalised by this tax
Lower Energy Charges for the Vulnerable
Require energy companies to inform customers of the best and most economic tariff
www.cspascotland.org.uk
[email protected]
CSPA Scotland Branch looks after the interest of all retired civil servants in Scotland
and campaigns on issues of interest to pensioners generally
Discounted Dental Care for Pensioners and Disabled
This would encourage these groups to attend the dentist and maintain their oral health and discounts would ensure that low income groups are more able to afford
such high cost items
Discounted Chiropody charges for Pensioners and Disabled
Similarly this would encourage better foot care and make these services more attainable
Free Personal Care and Integration of Health and Social Care
Take steps to accelerate the real integration of health and social care to ensure that free personal care is delivered right across Scotland and the
needless hospital deaths, happening at present, are eliminated
Removal of VAT on Sanitary Products
These are essential products for good health and should be free of tax
Digital Exclusion / Inclusion
Freedom of choice to opt in or opt out. No discrimination of those not willing or able to use digital means (eg, higher costs for services).
It should also be accessible and affordable for all who choose to opt in.