The information that is available is shown in the following table. Information cannot be provided at a lower level than Government Office Region, averaged over three years. Figures are based on survey data and as such subject to a degree of sampling and non sampling error. Figures are based on the average of three years' data as single year estimates do not provide a robust guide to year-on-year changes.
£per week (2006-07 prices) London 351 United Kingdom 322 Notes: 1. Gross income is income from all sources received by the pensioner unit including income from social security benefits, earnings from employment, any private pension, and tax credits. 2. Based on survey data and as such subject to a degree of sampling and non sampling error. Figures are based on the average of three years' data as single year estimates do not provide a robust guide to year-on-year changes. United Kingdom figures are included on the same basis for comparison: further information for single years at a national level are available in the publication "Pensioners' Income Series 2006-07. 3. Figures have been rounded to the nearest £. 4. Figures are based on the average incomes of pensioner units (couples or singles) where all members are state pension age or over.
The Government provide a solid foundation of support for pensioners through the state pension system while focusing available resources on those who need most through targeted measures such as pension credit.
At the same time, pensioners in general are entitled to a range of benefits and concessions, including winter fuel payments; free TV licences for those aged over 75; and free bus travel, prescriptions, and eye tests for the over 60s.
At the point of initial contact with the Department pensioners are given information on the range of benefits to which they may be entitled.
Reforms by the Government will provide a firmer foundation for future pensioners through a simpler, more widely available and generous state pension.