"I relocated to the UK 13 years ago, having been a community support worker for a UK women’s development charity in Uganda. For the past seven years, I’ve worked as a carer in Middlesborough for an older lady three nights a week. Since she died, though, I’ve been struggling to find work. I feel that’s because of my age.
Although I’m managing to pay my rent on my council house, all my bills have gone up, so my savings are gone. I’ve never missed a payment. I use a little heating, but it’s still cold and means I only eat twice a day. How is this possible? And you no longer eat what you want; you eat what’s there. Chicken and beef are so expensive, so I buy vegetables, rice and beans."
"I have indefinite leave to remain in the UK but not the £600 to apply for citizenship. My passport has expired and now I can’t afford to go home. I haven’t seen most of my grandchildren in person. I keep myself happy but inside I am struggling.
I use a little heating, but it’s still cold and means I only eat twice a day. How is this possible?"
Too many people like Aminah aren’t enjoying the later life they had hoped for. By sharing her story, Aminah is helping us call for an end to financial hardship in older age.
Through our campaigns, research and services like our free Helpline, we’re making a real difference to the lives of older people facing financial hardship. Your support helps us do this. Together we can end pensioner poverty.