Many pensioners are living below the poverty line

One in seven older people in Northern Ireland is living in severe poverty, according to a report by Help the Aged.

The report, entitled a Spotlight on Older People in Northern Ireland, found that 28% of pensioners were living beneath the poverty line.

Duane Farrell from the charity said up to £168m in benefits due to the elderly were not being claimed.

"This report shines a harsh light on the poor quality of life experienced by many pensioners," he said.

"That older people, at the start of the 21st century, do not have enough money to live on is nothing short of a scandal.

"Our executive has committed itself to action which will address the shocking instances of child poverty.

"Yet older people equally face terrible choices in light of ever-increasing prices not matched by increases in the basic state pension or benefits."