As happens each year, the secretary of state for work and pensions is required by law to undertake an annual review of benefits and the state pension.

The outcome of that review will be announced this autumn, following the publication of the relevant indices by the Office for National Statistics in October, and the new rates will take effect from April 2024.

In April, the state pension saw its biggest ever rise, increasing by 10.1 per cent. 

The full yearly amount of the basic state pension is over £3,050 higher, in cash terms, than in  2010. 

That’s £790 more than if it had been uprated by prices, and £945 more than if it had been uprated by earnings (since 2010). 

The government also provides additional support to older people, which includes the provision of free bus passes, free prescriptions, and Winter Fuel Payments, with Cold Weather Payments for those in receipt of Pension Credit.

Flu season is here again and Kernow Health CIC, who run school age immunisations, have started their nasal flu vaccination programme. 

There have been some changes this year and vaccinations are now offered to children from reception through to Year 11.

Some parents and guardians have already received a letter from the Kernow Health CIC, sent on their behalf by schools, with a link to an online consent form. 

If you haven’t had a letter yet, one will be heading your way over the coming weeks.

This is an opt-in process which means your child will only receive the vaccine if you consent. 

Don’t worry if your child is absent on the day of the vaccinations, you can book an appointment at one of Kernow Health’s community catch-up clinics during the October half term and again in December for those who missed out at school, or for children who are home-educated. 

If you have any questions about this vaccination, or if you have problems accessing the online consent form, please call Kernow Health on 01872 221105, and they can complete it with you over the phone. 

Since my election in 2015 my office has actioned over 60,000 cases on behalf of North Cornwall residents. 

If you require my help with anything, including benefits, the NHS or raising a concern with the Government then please contact me via [email protected] or 01208 74337. 

I hold regular advice surgeries, if you would like to meet with me then please get in touch. 

Further information about the work I do on behalf of the community can be found at www.scott mann.org.uk and on social media www.facebook.com/therightmann forNorthCornwall