Concern about pensions is one of the more frequent topics raised with me on the doorstep , said Stephen, and I want to make clear how Conservatives value the role older people play in families and in society, and will not let them suffer because of the

Concern about pensions is one of the more frequent topics raised with me on the doorstep", said Stephen, "and I want to make clear how Conservatives value the role older people play in families and in society, and will not let them suffer because of the economic mistakes of others."

Conservatives have pledged to raise the basic state pension in line with earnings and to protect:

• the winter fuel payment;

• free bus passes;

• free TV licences;

• disability living allowance and attendance allowance; and,

• the pension credit.

Under Labour, the cost of living for pensioners has soared. Conservatives will work with local councils to introduce a two year Council Tax freeze.

Conservatives would also look at ways of creating more personalisation in health and social care, a new 'home protection scheme' so that people are not forced to sell their homes each year to pay for residential care at the end of their lives, and would want to see much greater use of direct payments and individual budgets, to give more real control over their care.