Margherita Abatecola is out training for the London Landmarks Half Marathon on April 6.
The 25-year-old university graduate is running her first half marathon for Independent Age, that is calling on the government to protect the Winter Fuel Payment.
She has seen first-hand through her job in banking how those on low incomes have struggled with the soaring cost of living.
The closure of bank branches has also made it more difficult for people unable to use online banking, she says.
“My grandmother had Alzheimer’s and it was heartbreaking to see her lose her independence,” Margherita said.
“I noticed how everything she used to do in person just disappeared, with the rapid advance in digital technology, leaving her even more lost.
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“I don’t know what she would have done without our support. We all need to help each other — so I want to make a difference for those who need it most.”
Margherita is one of 14 supporters running the half marathon for Independent Age, hoping to raise £4,500 to help carry on its work.
The charity’s chief executive Joanna Elson said: “It’s been a tough year for older people having lost the fuel payment which is a big blow to those on low incomes.
“Tying the payment to Pension Credit means far too many fall through the safety net with this money taken away from them. The need for a campaigning voice has never been higher.”
Around two million older people already live in poverty and “millions more face financial hardship”, the charity says.
Margherita is running the half marathon to raise public awareness as well as cash for the charity.
Well-wishers can help with donations by visiting the Margherita Abatecola page at independentage.enthuse.com.
Independent Age supports pensioners facing hardship and campaigns for change, insisting that “no one should face financial hardship in later life”.
