A powerful film based on a real call to a charity has shone a light on the reality of financial hardship for people in later life and highlighted that support may be available.
It comes after Jill, a pensioner who lost her home and business in the 2020 lockdown, contacted Independent Age for help after her life “spiralled” downwards.
Jill, who found herself feeling like a “burden” when she had to move in with her daughter, is portrayed by actor Jane Asher in a video of her story.
Jill, who had been working since she was 14 years old, ran a wedding dress business which was doing “quite well” prior to the coronavirus pandemic.
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Jane Asher portrayed Jill in the film for Independent Age
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The film recalls: “For the first time since the divorce, I had money in the bank, and I’d made it all myself. I was looking forward to the future.”
However, when the lockdown hit in March 2020, Jill’s income “disappeared overnight”.
“Suddenly I had a lot more going out than coming in. I tried to keep it going as long as possible but in the end, the business had to close.
“My life just kind of spiralled down from there.
“I lost the house. No one would give me a job. I’m sure they thought I was too old.
“It meant all I had to live on was my state pension. I’m living with my daughter now but I feel like such a burden. I want to be independent and get my own place, but I can’t see how. I don’t know what help there is out there for people like me. I feel so stressed and ashamed.”
The film cuts to after Jill had called the Independent Age helpline. Jill said it was “such a relief” to have heard a friendly voice.
She said: “I never in my life imagined I’d be talking to a charity.”
In the film, Independent Age explains more and more retired people are struggling because of the cost of living and housing problems.
Jill said the person she spoke to on the charity helpline pointed her “in the right direction” and helped her to apply for Housing Benefit and Pension Credit.
“I looked around the small flat the other day. I haven’t moved in yet but for the first time in ages, I can see a future again."
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On taking part in the film, Jane Asher said: "Times are incredibly tough at the moment. No one in later life should have to face money worries alone and unsupported or feel ashamed of asking for help.
“Stories like Jill’s show how a person’s circumstances can change so quickly, but it’s reassuring to know that charities like Independent Age are there to provide advice and support, and to make life worth living again.”
Joanna Elson CBE, Chief Executive of Independent Age, said: "There is a dangerous misconception that all older people are enjoying their retirement free from money worries but this could not be further from the truth for the millions of people in later life living in poverty.
“We hear from older people who have cut back to eating just one meal a day, or are sitting in cold and dark homes because they fear an unmanageable energy bill. Many are reaching out for the first time because of the cost-of-living and many tell us they feel ashamed of asking for help. This should never be the case.
“Through this powerful series, we want to show the reality of poverty in later life, but also show that support is available. Our helpline provides a lifeline for older people in financial hardship – one that takes them from what is often a very dark place. But our work isn’t possible without donations. Please donate whatever you can to help us make life worth living again for older people in financial hardship.”
Independent Age’s free and confidential helpline number is 0800 319 6789. It's also possible to email the team via helpline@independentage.org.