The Saga guide to over-60s perks - Cheaper rail fares Senior meal deals Help with energy and heating costs And more...
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The Saga guide to over-60s perks • Cheaper rail fares • Senior meal deals • Help with energy and heating costs And more...
Keep checking saga.co.uk/perks for an ever-changing range of exclusive offers
The Saga Out and about debit (inc 25% first year discount);
joint senior costs £47.65 by
Having a day out shopping, visiting a stately home, annual direct debit (inc 25% off
guide to or a night out at the pictures and a meal first year of membership) or
£63.50 by one-off payment.
afterwards needn’t break the bank when you’re
How: Buy membership online
over-60s
retired and armed with a deal or two or by phone. Flash your card
at Trust or partner properties.
SHOPPING offering reward vouchers and
perks
exclusive deals. Present your card What: National Trust
What: DIY when you make a purchase and membership
Who: B&Q stores link it to your online account to Who: National Trust
(diy.com, 0333 014 3098) earn points on online purchases. (nationaltrust.org.uk,
Deal: 10% in-store discount for 0344 800 1895)
TOP TIP
Welcome
over-60s on Wednesdays, plus Deal: Around a quarter off life
a reward programme and a £5 There are many local shopping and annual membership for
voucher off a £50 shop when deals for over-60s but often over-60s, both for individual and
After the big 6-0 birthday celebrations you sign up. they’re not advertised. In some joint members. (Individual senior
have died down, you will be cheered How: Pick up your Diamond Card places you can get discounts in £44.50; joint £72.50.) Gives free
to know that a new era of money-saving in store and either register it in stores by flashing your free bus entry and parking at National
opportunities opens up. the store or online to receive pass (see page 9), while some Trust properties and partner
So the Saga Magazine team has got to your 10% off and other benefits. garden centres will have their trusts abroad. To qualify you
work to produce a handy guide to scores of own loyalty cards, usually need to have been a National
the great perks, benefits, discounts, deals What: Tyres and car parts offering a discount on a specific Trust member for at least five
and concesssions on offer for people of this Who: ATS Euromaster day of the week. Whatever the years in the past ten.
magical age. There are the state entitlements (atseuromaster.co.uk, outlet, try asking if you can have How: Buy senior membership
of course: billions of pounds of government 0800 601060) a reduction for being over 60 and online or call the National Trust’s
benefits go unclaimed each year because Deal: 10% off all products for be prepared to show proof of your number above.
many of us don’t know about them – so over-60s joining ATS age – you’ll be surprised how
check them out here. Euromaster’s Club 60. often store staff will say yes. TOP TIP
WHAT’S INSIDE
As well as government-backed schemes, How: Apply for your Club 60 You don’t have to live in Scotland
we found all kinds of deals and offers from card online or at any of ATS DAYS OUT to take out National Trust
companies after your business: from rail fares Euromaster’s 345 service Scotland membership, which
across Europe to cinema screenings, and 3 Out and about centres. You will need to provide What: National Trust Scotland offers the same benefits and
from shopping to pub meals. your name and address. membership access to properties and events
Health and fitness become more important 7 Health and fitness Who: National Trust Scotland (including free parking) as
the older we get, too, so you’ll discover some What: Gardening (nts.org.uk, 0131 458 0200) English NT membership – at
free health perks here, as well as some gym 9 Travel – at home and abroad Who: Wyevale Garden Centres Deal: Reduced-price annual or a lower price.
discounts. And if there’s no discount on offer (wyevalegardencentres.co.uk, lifetime membership for
for the thing you want, you can even learn 12 Home is where the savings are 0333 355 1735) individual or joint members aged What: English Heritage
how to haggle! Deal: Double points on Tuesdays over 60 offering free access to membership
So keep this guide to hand: you never 14 Need-to-know state benefits for over-60s members of The properties and events in Who: English Heritage
know when it might come in useful. Garden Club reward scheme. Scotland, England, Wales and (english-heritage.org.uk,
15 How to haggle How: Apply online or in one of Northern Ireland, and partner 0370 333 1181)
By Holly Thomas Wyevale’s 149 garden centres for trusts abroad. Individual senior Deal: Discounted life and annual
GETTY
and Susannah Hickling 16 Apps and sites for savvy shoppers Garden Club membership, costs £29.65 by annual direct membership for over-60s
2 SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE The Saga guide to over-60s perks The Saga guide to over-60s perks SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE 3
Visit travel.saga.co.uk/partner-discounts for a range of exclusive travel deals
(individual and joint members), How: Buy membership by phone, Deal: Free Silver Screen
giving access to more than by post or at a staffed Cadw membership for over-60s with
400 historic places and free or site where you can get a further special screenings and free
cheaper entry to events. £10 off until March 31, 2016. refreshments. Cut-price
Check saga.co.uk/perks for any You’ll receive a membership card membership for retirees also
special offers, too. to show at attractions. available offering discounted
How: Join online, by phone or at tickets as well as food and drink,
any staffed English Heritage What: Historic Scotland and four free tickets.
property. You can get 15 months membership How: Select your local cinema on
for the price of 12 if you Who: Historic Scotland the website and book online. Or
join by annual direct debit. (historic-scotland.gov.uk, book at your local Picturehouse.
Take your membership card with 0131 668 8999)
you when you visit a property. Deal: Cut-price annual or life Who: Cineworld
Any children accompanying you individual or joint membership (cineworld.co.uk)
go free. for over-60s, offering free Deal: Discounted tickets
admission to historical attractions for seniors.
What: Cadw membership and events, 20% off in Historic How: Select your local cinema on
Who: Cadw, protecting heritage Scotland shops, 10% off in their the website and book online. Or
sites in Wales cafés and discounted entry book in person at the box office.
(cadw.gov.wales, 0800 074 3121) to English Heritage and Cadw
Deal: Reduced-price individual attractions. EATING OUT
and joint annual or life How: Sign up online or by phone.
membership for over-60s, giving Who: Diamond Club
free admission to attractions and TOP TIP (diamondclubcard.co.uk)
most events, 10% off purchases Many historic houses and Deal: Exclusive meal offers for
in gift shops and other benefits, cathedrals, including Canterbury over-50s at more than 100
including discounted entry Cathedral, Windsor Castle and participating pubs and carveries
at English Heritage and Historic York Minster, offer discounted rates by post. Show your card or use AT THE CINEMA who pay a discounted rate that (such as Great British Carveries
Scotland sites. for over-60s. Just make sure vouchers to obtain discounts. includes tea and biscuits. or Do Drop Inns), plus a loyalty
you ask and be prepared to show Who: Odeon Cinemas How: Check the website for films, scheme and a free drink on
proof of age. What: Royal Horticultural (odeon.co.uk/silvercinema, cinemas and screening times. your birthday.
Society membership 0333 067777 for info only) How: Sign up online and select
What: Campaign for Real Ale Who: Royal Horticultural Society Deal: Film screenings for over-55s Who: Empire Cinemas your local eatery, then present
membership (rhs.org.uk, 020 3176 5820) for £3 (some cinemas charge (empirecinemas.co.uk, your Diamond Card when you
Who: CAMRA Deal: More than £500 off life slightly more), including a hot 08714 714714) buy food. Offers are available
(camra.org.uk, 01727 867201) membership for over-60s (£1,250 drink and snacks beforehand. Deal: Cheaper tickets for Monday to Friday (excluding
Deal: Cut-price annual or life individual, £1,750 joint), offering How: Select your local cinema on over-60s; plus special screenings bank holidays) to the cardholder
individual or joint membership free visits to RHS gardens, a free the website to view Silver Cinema for seniors on Wednesday and one dining partner,
for over-60s, giving access to magazine, discounted garden- show times, which are usually mornings for £3 at selected who must also be over 50.
a range of vouchers and deals, show tickets, including the in the morning or afternoon. cinemas, including refreshments.
from discounted beer in Chelsea Flower Show, and free How: Select your local cinema on Who: Hungry Horse
participating pubs, to money off gardening advice. Who: Vue Cinemas the website and buy online, or (hungryhorse.co.uk)
CAMRA books, Cotswold How: Ring up to buy over-60s (myvue.com/offers-competitions/ by phone or at the box office. Deal: Two courses for £4.49,
Clothing and entry to top visitor life membership. Make sure you senior-vue; 08712 240240) Monday to Friday, at Hungry
attractions such as Alton Towers. have your membership card on Deal: Special Senior Cinema Club Who: Picturehouse Cinemas Horse pubs countrywide for
GETTY
How: Sign up online, by phone or you when visiting RHS gardens. screenings for the over-60s, (picturehouses.com) over-60s.
4 SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE The Saga guide to over-60s perks The Saga guide to over-60s perks SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE 5
Keep checking saga.co.uk/perks for an ever-changing range of exclusive offers
How: Select your local eatery How: Look online or call for availability, and discounts on STAYING ACTIVE
online. Choose from the special information on courses run by certain performances of some
Golden Years menu. Age UK in your area. shows at the Barbican, London. What: Walking
How: Select the over-60s Who: The Ramblers Association
TOP TIP Who: University of the rate when you book online or ask (ramblers.org.uk, 020 7339 8595)
Many pubs, restaurants and garden Third Age for the discount if you buy tickets Deal: Discounted individual
centre cafés have midweek lunch (u3a.org.uk, 020 8466 6139) by phone. or joint life membership for all
bargains for the over-60s – keep an Deal: Locally based classes on over-60s; monthly and annual
eye out for deals near you. a huge range of subjects at What: Theatre membership for those on
minimal cost for over-50s run by Who: National Theatre means-tested benefits and those
CLASSES & COURSES members of U3A for members. (nationaltheatre.org.uk, solely reliant on state pension.
How: Search for a local 020 7452 3000) Gives access to group-led walks,
What: Computer courses branch on the website or by Deal: Up to £20 off tickets for Ramblers Routes online library
Who: UK Online Centres giving them a call. weekday matinées. and member offers.
(ukonlinecentres.com, How: Book tickets online or by How: Join online, by phone or by
0114 221 0410) TOP TIP phone. post. Use your card when
Deal: Free or low-cost computer Fancy studying for a degree in claiming offers, such as a 15%
courses for elderly or vulnerable retirement? If so, you can apply What: Opera and ballet discount at Cotswold Outdoors.
people at 5,000 centres across for the same student loans as Who: English National Opera
the country. teens, once you’re offered (eno.org, 020 7845 9300) What: T’ai chi
How: Find a centre online, or give a place. No recipient has to start Deal: Standby tickets available Who: Taoist Tai Chi Society of
them a call. repaying their loan until they are on the day up to three hours Great Britain (taoist.org.uk)
earning around £21,000. before the performance Deal: Special rate on annual
Who: Age UK for senior citizens and other membership for over-60s,
(ageuk.org.uk, 0800 169 2081) CULTURE & SPORT concessions. offering unlimited attendance at
Deal: Inexpensive classes, How: Buy in person at the the society’s classes.
activities and courses for older What: Theatre, comedy, London Coliseum box office. How: Find a local class on the
people, from keep fit to computer concerts First come, first served. society’s website.
training to fly-fishing and Strictly Who: Saga (saga.co.uk/
come tea dancing. theatretickets, 020 7492 1560) TOP TIP What: Bowling
Deal: Save up to 60% on top Many local theatres, arts centres Who: Hollywood Bowl and AMF
productions nationwide, from and concert halls outside (hollywoodbowl.co.uk
theatre to stand-up to events London offer concessionary rates or AMF-bowling.co.uk)
and exhibitions. to the over-60s or pensioners Deal: Concessionary rates for
How: Go online to browse on some or all performances. pensioners.
a huge selection of cheap tickets You’re more likely to get How: Buy tickets online
for all kinds of events. a deal if you book in person at or at your local Hollywood Bowl
the box office. Always ask. or AMF bowling centre.
What: Theatre
Who: Royal Shakespeare What: Football matches What: Skiing
Company Who: Most clubs Who: European ski resorts
(rsc.org.uk, 01789 403493) Deal: Discounted membership Deal: Many resorts offer
Deal: 20% off Monday and
Tuesday evening performances
and tickets for members over 60
or 65, depending on the club. Health and fitness discounted ski passes for seniors
and free skiing for over-75s. The
and weekday matinées in How: Check with the club Keeping fit and healthy becomes a priority as we grow Three Valleys ski area in France,
Stratford-upon-Avon subject to you support. older, but it doesn’t have to eat into a limited income for example, hands out
6 SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE The Saga guide to over-60s perks The Saga guide to over-60s perks SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE 7
Visit travel.saga.co.uk/partner-discounts for a range of exclusive travel deals
discounted ski passes for those
aged 65-74 and free passes to
the gym, group exercise classes
and swimming, and up to
How: You need to have a Boots
Advantage card, which is free.
This will interest only those living
in England as people in Wales, Travel
skiers aged 75 and over. 30% off non-member prices for Sign up online or in store, and Northern Ireland and Scotland Take advantage of fabulous deals available all over the
How: Check tariffs online before other activities. become a member of More Treats receive free prescriptions UK and Europe – just leave the car at home and take off
booking and make sure you How: Find your local Better for Over-60s, though you will regardless of age.
take ID to prove you really are an Leisure Centre online and apply need to register online. Shop How: You will automatically
ultra-fit silver skier. If you’re there with proof of age. online or in store to earn points be sent an NHS Tax Credit
over 75 and don’t fancy skiing, and benefit from offers. Exemption certificate to produce
just take advantage of the SEEING & HEARING when collecting prescriptions.
free lift pass and enjoy a vin What: Glasses If you don’t, contact your GP.
chaud in a mountain restaurant! What: Glasses Who: Optical Express
Who: Glasses Direct (opticalexpress.co.uk What: Flu vaccine
TOP TIP (saga.co.uk/glassesdirect) or visit your local branch) Who: NHS
Most local councils offer free, Deal: The Saga deal includes a Deal: 25% off glasses, including Deal: A free flu jab from October
reduced-rate or special sessions free second pair, 50% off frames lenses, for over-60s. each year, saving £12.99, for
for over-60s at swimming pools, over £55 and varifocal lenses, How: You will need to spend those aged 65 and over. Those
gyms and leisure centres in their plus free tints and delivery. more than £69 and receive your who will turn 65 by March 31,
area. Many local authorities have How: Go online and choose from free eye examination at Optical 2016 are eligible.
a leisure pass for older residents, hundreds of frames, with lenses Express. A free second pair How: Contact your GP and ask
which also offers discounts on made to your prescription. Online of specs is available to anyone about the flu jab clinic.
other amenities and in stores. only: use code SGGD50. spending more than £150 after Alternatively, you can get it in
Time to check yours out? the discount. pharmacies across England
What: Glasses and Wales, including 1,900
IN THE GYM Who: Specsavers (specsavers.co. uk, TOP TIP Boots pharmacies.
then select your local branch) When you reach 60, you will no
What: Gym membership Deal: 25% off glasses, lenses and longer be charged for an NHS AT THE DENTIST PUBLIC TRANSPORT right to free travel on Scottish
Who: DW Fitness Clubs extra options for over-60s. sight test, saving around £20-40 long-distance buses. In Wales,
(dwfitnessclubs.com, How: Choose from a range of a visit if you live in England or What: Dental care What: Bus travel concessionary travel-pass holders
0344 249 5300) frames costing £69 or more in Wales. In Scotland sight tests are Deal: Free dental treatment and Who: Usually your local authority can also travel free on Arriva
Deal: Discounted off-peak your local branch to obtain the free for all ages. Inform your check-ups for anyone who Deal: Free off-peak travel on trains on certain routes. In
membership at DW Fitness Clubs discount. Deal includes standard optician that you no longer need receives the Pensions Credit local buses anywhere in the Northern Ireland, over-60s get
for over-60s, including free Pentax lenses with scratch- to pay for tests, and ask for the Guarantee Credit in England, country for people who have free bus travel, then at 65 they
group exercise classes and 10% resistant treatment. You can also form GOS1 that will waive the fee. Wales and Northern Ireland. reached state pension age in are entitled to free travel on
off in DW Sports stores. claim your free NHS eye test. Hearing tests are free through the Welsh residents over 60 England (60+ in Scotland, Wales public transport all over Ireland.
How: Sign up online for NHS. Your GP will give you and over-60s living in Scotland and Northern Ireland).
a monthly option of £25 a month What: Glasses and hearing aids a hearing test and will refer you receive free check-ups. How: Apply online at gov.uk What: Public transport
or an annual membership that Who: Boots to a specialist if you need How: Tell your dental practice and search for ‘bus pass’, or for Londoners
gives you 14 months for the price (boots.com, 0345 124 4545) a hearing aid, which is also free you want NHS treatment when contact your local authority. Who: London councils
of 12. You’ll need proof of age. Deal: 25% off glasses and half through the NHS. you make an appointment, and You’ll need proof of age, (londoncouncils.gov.uk,
price for a second pair; 15% off fill out the form you are given residency and a passport-style 0300 330 1433)
What: Gym membership hearing aids and 10 loyalty points AT THE DOCTOR when you arrive. You will be photo. Show the card on Deal: Free travel across London
Who: Better Leisure Centres for every £1 you spend on Boots’ asked to show proof of your boarding. Also accepted on Park and local buses nationally for
(better.org.uk) own-brand products. Boots What: Prescriptions entitlement to help with and Ride buses in some areas. Londoners of retirement age.
Deal: Concessionary membership also provides free hearing tests Who: NHS dental costs. If you have an In Scotland, over-60s can How: Apply for a free Freedom
for over-60s at Better Leisure (bootshearingcare.com, Deal: Save £8.20 on every exemption certificate, be sure to apply for a National Entitlement Pass online or by post. You will
GETTY
Centres, giving off-peak access to 0333 920 6194). prescription if you’re over 60. take it with you. Card, which also gives them the need a passport photo and
8 SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE The Saga guide to over-60s perks The Saga guide to over-60s perks SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE 9
Visit travel.saga.co.uk/partner-discounts for a range of exclusive travel deals
proof of ID and your address. return anywhere in the country HOLIDAYS Deal: There are over-60s deals a year for a ‘Tarjeta Dorada’ What: Motorhome/camping
Some restrictions on times of if you book three days ahead. across Europe, usually by giving 25-40% off fares Who: Camping and
travel apply on buses and trains. What: Free passport purchasing each operator’s depending on the day of travel. Caravanning Club
What: Rail travel Who: Gov.uk (gov.uk/apply- version of a Senior Railcard in (renfe.com, click on ‘welcome’ at (campingandcaravanningclub.
What: Public transport Who: National Rail renew-passport, advice line each country. the top, search for ‘gold card’) co.uk; 024 7647 5442)
for Londoners (senior-railcard.co.uk, 0300 222 0000) How: Deal: An extra 25% off Club Site
Who: Transport for London 0345 3000 250) Deal: The £72.50 is waived FRANCE Buy a Carte Senior by What: Ferry to France/Spain pitch fees out of high season for
(tfl.gov.uk, 0343 222 1234) Deal: Third off Standard and completely for those born on or phone or in person at Voyages- Who: P&O, Brittany Ferries, Club members over 60.
Deal: Free travel across London First Class Anytime, Off-Peak before September 2, 1929. SNCF London Travel Centre Stena Line. (saga.co.uk/ferries) How: You have to be a member
– but not beyond – for over-60s and Advance fares for anyone How: You’ll need to fill in an (cost £58.50 in the UK), in Deal: Between 5-10% off ferry first – join up online or by phone.
living in the capital who aren’t yet over 60. application form: do it online, or person at a French railway fares booked through Saga. To claim your 25% Age
eligible for a Freedom Pass. How: Pay £30 for a one-year get one from the Post Office, or station or affiliated travel How: Online or by phone Concession Rate, take proof of
How: Apply for a 60+ London Senior Railcard or £70 for call the advice line. The Post agency. It gives a wide range of and quote Saga (non-internet age to any Club site.
Oyster Photocard online or by a three-year card. Buy online, by Office Passport Check and Send good discounts. (sncf.com/en/ bookings may cost more):
phone for an admin fee of £20. phone or in a staffed station service is also free. discounts/senior-plus-card, Brittany 0330 159 7000; TOP TIP
You’ll need a passport photo, ticket office. You must show your 0844 848 5848). Stena 08447 707070; Did you know Saga has all kinds
ID and proof of address. Railcard when you buy your What: General holidays P&O 0871 664 6464. of offers that you can’t find
ticket before boarding the train. Who: Saga Holiday World BELGIUM Just buy your elsewhere? Check travel offers at
TOP TIP You can’t use it during (saga.co.uk/holidayworld) discounted ticket online or at What: Ferry to France travel.saga.co.uk/partner-
It’s not just London that looks after weekday morning peak hours in Deal: Apart from Saga holidays stations, but carry proof of age. Who: LD Lines/DFDS Seaways discounts and lifestyle offers on
older public-transport users. Many London and the South East. themselves, of course, Saga has (belgianrail.be/en and click on (ldlines.co.uk, click on ‘Special saga.co.uk/perks. And keep an
cities and big towns offer free teamed up with partners to offer ‘Travel Tickets’) Offers’ then ‘Newhaven–Dieppe’, eye on Saga Magazine’s exclusive
travel on public transport for the What: Rail travel in Scotland special exclusive discounts and 0800 917 1201) reader offers and events, too!
over-60s. For example, Merseyside Who: Scotrail benefits on a range of holidays, ITALY Buy a Carta d’Argento Deal: Up to 20% off ferry fares
residents can apply for a pass to (scotrail.co.uk, 0300 790 6165) from Virgin to Shearings. at an Italian railway station. on certain sailIngs between
use local buses, trains and Mersey Deal: Over-50s can join Club How: Just head online and have You’ll need your passport. Newhaven and Dieppe
ferries at no cost, while Leeds and 50 for £15, giving them 20% off fun choosing a break. (trenitalia.com/tcom-en, search for over-60s.
Leicester offer a similar deal for Off-Peak and Advance tickets for ‘silver card’) How: Through the call
people of pensionable age. Check when bought online, 10% at a What: Rail travel in Europe centre or in person at
your own city’s transport policies station or by phone, plus Who: National providers SPAIN Over-60s can pay €6 the port.
for over-60s as there are various discounts such as a free cup of
schemes across Britain. tea or coffee on services offering
catering. Plus discounts with
What: Coach travel selected partners, such as
Who: National Express performances of the Royal
(saga.co.uk/nationalexpress, Scottish National Orchestra.
0871 200 0355) How: Sign up online. You’ll
Deal: For just £8 for an entire require an email address and
year (usually £10), over-50s can recent photo. You’ll need to carry
save a third on travel anywhere in your membership card with
the country. you to validate your ticket and
How: Fill in an online form or call claim your free hot drink.
to obtain your Saga Coachcard While a Senior Railcard offers
for £8 plus £2 if posted. The Saga better discounts on fares,
Coachcard also entitles you to Club 50 is worth it if you’re
the £15 Tuesdays offer – £15 day interested in the other benefits.
10 SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE The Saga guide to over-60s perks The Saga guide to over-60s perks SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE 11
Keep checking saga.co.uk/perks for an ever-changing range of exclusive offers
HOTELSAND
SHORT BREAKS Home is where...
...the savings are! Snuggle up with these great savings to
Who: Classic British Hotels make being at home just that little bit cheaper
(saga.co.uk/classicbritishhotels)
Deal: Special Saga rates at
country house hotels across the ENERGY SAVINGS How: Contact any energy
UK, with a Best Price Guarantee supplier and ask. A quick
of being the lowest available rate, What: Discounts on energy way to check whether you
or 15% off when booked in Who: Warm Home Discount qualify is to call the Energy
advance. Scheme (0345 603 9439). Saving Trust and answer a few
How: Via the web address above Deal: Gas and electricity basic questions. The number
or ring 0844 967 0983, providers offer the varies according to region:
quoting Saga. Warm Home Discount to 0300 123 1234 (England),
households that are in 0808 808 2244 (Wales)
Who: UK Warner Hotels receipt of the guaranteed 0808 808 2282 (Scotland)
(saga.co.uk/warner) element of Pension Credit. 0800 142 2865 (Northern Ireland).
Deal: Special Saga savings of up This is an annual £140 rebate
to 40% on a range of country on your overall bill and replaces SAFETY
breaks, and a free lunch on every the former ‘social tariffs’.
full day of stay. (So there is such How: You should receive a letter What: Gas safety checks
a thing!) if you’re eligible from your Who: Gas suppliers
How: Via the web address above supplier – but if you haven’t and Deal: A free annual gas safety
or ring 0330 100 9780, you think you should be receiving check to ensure gas appliances
quoting Saga. it, contact the Warm Home and flues are working. Gas
Discount Scheme team. suppliers have a duty to provide
Who: SuperBreak free safety checks to some
and Eurostar TOP TIP pensioners. If living in rented How: Contact Age UK Advice to Deal: Save £145.50 on a TV membership for over-60s,
(saga.co.uk/superbreak) Always check energy-switching property it is the responsibility of discover their handyperson licence when you turn 75. 74-year offering unlimited access to
Deal: An extra 10% off thousands sites such as USwitch (uswitch.com). the landlord. services in your area. -olds can apply for a short licence emergency pet advice 24/7, free
of short breaks, from Eurostar AgeUK and EON have a special How: Check your eligibility with to cover up to 75. third-party insurance for your
travel to theatre trips or over-60s energy tariff, but check your energy supplier or call the What: Fire safety How: You must apply for this – dog, free magazine and more.
affordable hotel visits. if it’s the best deal for you. Gas Safe Register (previously Who: Your local fire service it’s not automatic. You’ll need to How: Set up your membership
How: Book online or call known as CORGI) on (list of participating brigades at provide your current TV licence online or by phone.
01904 420453, quoting Saga. What: Loft/cavity wall 0800 408 5500. cfoa.org.uk/12247) number, date of birth and your
insulation Deal: Free home fire-risk National Insurance number or TOP TIP
Who: Macdonald Hotels Who: British Gas What: Home repairs and safety assessment and, often, free other ID. If you share your house Ring the Home Heat Helpline on
(saga.co.uk/macdonald) Deal: Free loft, cavity wall and and security measures smoke alarm. with someone younger than 75, 0800 336699 for advice on grants
Deal: Up to 35% off two-night external wall insulation worth Who: Age UK (ageuk.org.uk, How: Contact your local fire you can still get a free licence but and schemes to help with energy
short breaks at their 45 hotels around £700. Grants are available 0800 169 6565) service. A fire officer will carry it must be in your name. costs. And going on the Priority
across the UK. too whether or not you are a Deal: Small repairs, smoke out a risk assessment for fire Services Register gives all kinds
How: Select ‘Senior Discount’ British Gas customer. Under the alarms, door locks and suchlike, – and for falls too in some areas. What: Dogs’ Trust membership of practical help to vulnerable
under ‘Special Rates’ when Energy Companies Obligation or energy efficiency checks Who: Dogs’ Trust pensioners. Find out more about
making an online booking. You (ECO) the grants are for those carried out free or for a small fee What: Free TV licence (dogstrust.org.uk, the register from your local
will need to show proof of aged 60 or above on a low income, for over-60s with less than Who: BBC TV (tvlicensing.co.uk, 020 7837 0006) Citizens Advice or online at
eligibility when you check in. who meet the requirements. £20,000 in savings. 0300 790 6073) Deal: 50% off annual citizensadvice.org.uk.
12 SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE The Saga guide to over-60s perks The Saga guide to over-60s perks SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE 13
What: Cold Weather Payment
Deal: £25 for each seven-day How to haggle
period of very cold weather Don’t just accept the
between November 1 and March
price on the ticket.
31 for those in receipt of Pension
Credit (see box). You should Learn to bargain with
receive this payment automatically. a smile and get the best
A recorded, or forecasted, period deal on the high street
of cold weather will trigger the
process that allows payment to be There’s absolutely nothing TOP 10 to buy one may mean your final offer and
made to eligible customers living in wrong with asking for HAGGLING you can negotiate the assistant will
the affected postcode areas. a discount – in fact, it’s built TIPS a lower price on the hopefully fill the
How: Use the online postcode in to some shops’ official product. You can awkward silence
tool to check if your area is policies, says Martin Lewis of 1. Ask the sales change your mind with a cheaper deal.
eligible for a payment: MoneySavingExpert.com. person to throw within 45 days of
gov.uk/cold-weather-payment. Their research earlier this something in for free purchase (check the 8. Look for tiny
year showed that shoppers – polish with shoes, a small print in case dents in electrical
What: Christmas bonus had a more than 50% success fridge with a kitchen, that changes), so appliances, or marks
Deal: If you are receiving a state rate of haggling with some free cables with a TV take advantage of on clothing – it’ll
Money, money, money pension or pension credit, you
will be entitled to a £10 Christmas
bonus tax free (but not if you
of the big high-street names.
Top of the list was Carphone
Warehouse, followed
– and request a
discount for paying
the knock-down
price, then cancel
the warranty.
make the product
harder to sell, giving
you the opening to
State benefits to boost the coffers… with a debit – rather
have deferred taking your by Currys/PC World, John than a credit – card. make an offer.
What: Free tax help means-tested Rate Relief Scheme pension). In some cases, you can Lewis, Homebase, B&Q, 5. Choose an
Who: Tax Help for Older People (home owners 0300 200 7801, also get a bonus for your partner. Tesco, M&S, Debenhams, 2. Look for items assistant manager or 9. Play high-street
(TOP) (0845 601 3321 or tenants 03448 920902). How: It should be paid to you with Clarks and Asda in joint that are already supervisor to bargain retailers off against
01308 488066) How: Contact your local council automatically in the first full ninth place. discounted/obsolete with in person – they each other. Many
Deal: If you are aged 60 or over to apply. week of December. If not, If you don’t ask, you don’t stock – towards the have more power offer price-match
and on a low income TOP will contact the pension centre that get, so give it a go next time end of a sale is than a junior internet prices when
give free help with tax allowances What: Winter Fuel Payment deals with your payments. you go shopping. Be polite, a golden opportunity assistant, but pushed, so use
or returns that can’t be sorted Deal: You could get between charming and humorous. The as shops are keen to someone at the very a shopping
out with HMRC. £100 and £300 tax-free to help WHAT IS PENSION worst anybody can say is ‘no’, reclaim their display top will be too busy. comparison site,
How: Call the volunteer TOP pay your heating bills. Those CREDIT? and then you just walk away. space for new stock. A midweek print out the results
helpline or visit taxvol.org.uk. born on or before January 5, 1953 Pension Credit is offered to those mid-morning is best, and see if the shop
qualify for £200. who have reached state pension Martin Lewis advises: 3. Buying in bulk when shops are at will cooperate.
What: Council tax reduction Those aged 80 or over in the age. It is an income-related ‘Aim for polite, firm, non- usually means their quietest.
Deal: Your bill could be reduced qualifying week will get £300. tax-free benefit made up of two combative and maybe just discounts. If you’ve 10. Big savings are
by up to 100% under the How: Call the Winter Fuel parts: Guarantee Credit and a touch flirtatious. Aggressive nowhere to store the 6. Take advantage of always available on
Council Tax Reduction scheme, Payment Centre to claim by Savings Credit. Guarantee Credit or forceful haggling is usually goods, ask friends if those ‘live chat’ phones/mobiles, TV,
which replaced Council Tax phone on 03459 151515. tops up your weekly income if it’s a mistake. It annoys the person they want to share windows online to broadband and car
Benefit. You could be eligible if You will need your National below £151.20 for a single person or you’re dealing with, and the deal with you. ask for a discount. insurance. Tell your
you’re on a low income or Insurance number and bank £230.85 for couples. Savings your discount is normally at company you’ll leave
claim benefits and have reached details. Don’t leave it too late. Credit is an extra payment for their discretion.’ 4. Sales staff have to 7. Don’t fill the unless it gives you
the age for Pension Credit You can’t claim Winter Fuel those with savings or investments. reach targets on the silence. Stay schtum a better deal – they
(see box). People in Northern Payment for 2015 to 2016 after Find out if you are eligible at number of warranties with a poker face usually come up
Ireland may qualify for the March 31, 2016. gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator. Words Melanie Whitehouse they sell, so agreeing when you’ve made with something.
14 SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE The Saga guide to over-60s perks The Saga guide to over-60s perks SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE 15
Savvy shopping
1 VoucherCloud app helps 2 Let price-comparison apps do
you to locate thousands of offers the leg-work for you.
for shops and restaurants Download RedLaser, scan
near you. a barcode and you’ll find the
best prices online. ShopSavvy
3 The website MySupermarket. will direct you to the sales.
co.uk allows shoppers to
compare the cost of items at 4 Cashback app CheckoutSmart
Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, sends you exclusive access
Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Ocado, to offers from your favourite
and Aldi, saving an average supermarket brands.
30% every time. There’s
also a complementary app. 5 Downloading the
Spendometer app will mean
6 MoneySavingExpert’s you can set a budget and
MegaShopBot.com instantly stick to it by logging your
selects and searches the best outgoings as you shop.
shopping comparison sites.
SAGA.CO.UK/MAGAZINE
© Saga Publishing Ltd, 2015
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