Warren to reprise Older Persons' Champion role

A BUCKIE councillor has been reappointed as Older Persons' Champion for Moray Council.

Councillor Sonya Warren was originally appointed to the role prior to May's local government election, and is now joined by Heldon and Laich councillor James Allan.

The duo will act as a link between the council and older people across Moray, ensuring their needs are considered in the planning and delivery of policies and services.

Councillor Warren said: "I'm delighted to have been reappointed as joint Older Persons' Champion along with Councillor James Allan.

"I'm looking forward to helping people through this role in any way I can.

"One of the things I'm keen to encourage older folk to do is check that they're claiming everything they're entitled to, especially with the impact the cost of living crisis is having.

"Many older people locally that are not claiming all the Pension Credits they are entitled to, it's money which could make a real difference. Please check with your nearest and dearest to see if they have checked their entitlement.

"As the cost of living crisis deepens, and many older people are struggling with soaring bills, it is more important than ever to ensure that those in need receive every penny of support they are entitled to, especially as the energy support payments announced by the UK government are means-tested."

Older people in Scotland can check their eligibility for Pension Credit and other financial support with a phone call to the free 0800 12 44 222 Age Scotland helpline.

Advice is also available online at the Age UK website https://www.ageuk.org.uk/scotland/information-advice/benefits/pension-credit/#

Moray Council's income maximisation team are also able to provide a range of advice.

Also appointed to champions roles were: Councillor Juli Harris (Equalities); Councillor Peter Broomfield (Armed Forces and Veterans); Councillor Draeyk Van Der Horn (Climate Change).

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