Andy Burnham has promised to prioritise the cost of living in his first weeks as prime minister, and people aged 60 and over do not need to wait for state pension age to unlock a series of freebies and discounts. In his inaugural speech outside 10 Downing Street, Mr Burnham said he would bring forward a 10-year plan for Britain, while also taking immediate steps to ease financial pressures. “But I can do something to give people some breathing space now, some help with the cost of living, and I will set out some of those measures starting tomorrow, including how we pay for them,” he said.
The comments come as the state pension age is due to increase to 67 next year, meaning many older workers will wait longer before receiving their pension. However, a host of concessions remain available to those who have turned 60, ranging from transport savings to free prescriptions.
Free bus passes and coach travel
The availability of free bus passes differs depending on where you live. In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, residents can apply when they reach 60. In England, the pass is normally linked to state pension age, so older people in England may need to wait a little longer. There is, however, a separate benefit for coach journeys.
National Express offers a Senior Coachcard to customers aged 60 and over in England and Wales. The card costs £15 plus £3 postage and gives a one-third discount on standard fares. It also unlocks limited-time offers such as £15 return trips on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays when booked at least three days ahead, as well as 15 per cent off adult Fully Flexible fares.
Rail fare reductions
Over-60s can also apply for a Senior Railcard, which delivers savings on a wide range of tickets, including First Class, Standard, Advance and off-peak bookings. The railcard is priced at £35 per year, or £80 for a three-year validity. It cannot be used for morning peak-time journeys within London, the South East and the Network Rail area, but off-peak travellers can benefit substantially.
Food and drink offers
Several restaurants and retailers have specific deals for older customers. Dobbies garden centres offer over-60s a main meal and a cake for £12 from Monday to Friday, between 12pm and 3pm. In addition, Iceland and The Food Warehouse give customers aged 60 and over a 10 per cent discount every Tuesday, with no minimum spend required.
These food offers are particularly useful for those on a fixed income, as the cost of groceries and eating out continues to rise.
Cinema and theatre deals
Leisure activities are also cheaper for over-60s. Many local cinemas and theatres provide concessionary rates, including ‘silver screen’ matinee showings. ODEON’s Silver Screen tickets cost only £3.50 and include free tea, coffee and biscuits before the film. The National Theatre offers £20 off midweek matinees for the over 60s, while the Royal Shakespeare Company has a 20 per cent discount for over-65s on Monday and Tuesday evening performances and all midweek matinees.
NHS prescriptions and healthcare
In Scotland and Wales, prescriptions are free for everyone. In England, they become free once you reach 60. NHS-funded eye tests are also free for those over 60, and dental treatment is free for anyone receiving pension guarantee credit. Several healthcare retailers provide additional perks for older shoppers.
Eyecare and high street rewards
Specsavers offers 20 per cent off glasses for over-60s when they spend £70 or more. This covers frames, lenses and optional extras such as lens protection or sun treatment. Boots, meanwhile, has an over-60s rewards programme that gives double Advantage Card points, helping loyal customers save on everyday purchases.
Days out, memberships and sport
Most museums offer senior concessions, and both English Heritage and National Trust have reduced membership rates for older people. Sports enthusiasts aged 65 and over can often find discounted matchday and season tickets for football, cricket and rugby games.
With Andy Burnham vowing to bring forward more cost-of-living measures in the coming days, these existing freebies and discounts offer an immediate way for over-60s to cut their expenses before they reach state pension age.
