PENSIONERS are living in some of the worst housing in the country which is putting their health at risk.

A report launched this week by Age Concern says nearly one-and-a-half million homes are unfit for human habitation.

And what should be their dream home has turned into a nightmare for many elderly folk - as three-quarters of the poorest people living in the worst housing are pensioners.

"Your dream home - or is it?" marks the start of Age Concern England's 1996 campaign "More than bricks and mortar."

Age Concern will be calling throughout the year for:

More homes for sale or rent designed with the needs of older people in mind.

More government investment in housing for older people with special needs and on low incomes.

An adequately funded grants system for repairs.

Accessible housing with scope for future adaptation to enable older people to stay independent.

A duty on local authorities to provide permanent housing for the homeless.

Mrs Liz Johnston-Hoerter, co-ordinator with responsibilities for visiting and advice for Age Concern in Chorley, backed the action plan.

She said: "I know one cheerful and delightful old lady who's happy in her home, but it certainly leaves a lot to be desired.

"For example, she has an outside lavatory and there's no central heating. She has coal fires but there's no heating in the bedroom and she's nearer 90 than 80.

"But certainly there are, I'm sure, a number of poor homes that will all be inhabited by old people who haven't been able to do improvements and still have landlords who think it isn't necessary."

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