Supporting Over-60s Through Rising Costs: How Bradleys and Homewise Can Help

- Tue 08 Apr 2025

As of 1st April, households across the UK are facing significant increases in essential living costs, with those over 60 especially vulnerable to these rises. Many older homeowners live on fixed incomes, making the rising costs of water bills, energy, council tax, and more particularly challenging to manage. At Bradleys, we recognise these pressures, and through our partnership with Homewise, we’re dedicated to helping those over 60 navigate these changes and move to a home that better suits their financial and lifestyle needs.

April Price Rises: What’s Changing?

Here’s a breakdown of the key cost increases taking effect today:

1. Water Bills – Water costs in England and Wales have risen by an average of £10 per month.

2. Gas and Electricity Bills – Energy bills are up by £111 per year, now totalling £1,849 annually for many households.

3. Council Tax – England sees an increase of 4.99%, and Wales rises by 4.5% to 9.5%.

4. Vehicle Tax – Vehicle tax for cars registered after April 2017 has risen by £5, now £195 per year.

5. Broadband, Phone, and TV Licence – Prices are rising, with the TV Licence fee increasing by £5 to £174.50.

6. Stamp Duty – Buyers in England and Northern Ireland will now pay stamp duty on properties over £125,000 (previously £250,000).

7. "Stealth Tax" – Income tax and National Insurance thresholds remain frozen, potentially pushing more people into higher tax bands.

How Bradleys and the Home for Life Plan Can Support You

For those over 60, these increases can create a real financial strain. At Bradleys, we want to ensure you’re not facing these pressures alone. Through our Homewise partnership, we offer tailored solutions that help you move to a new home that’s more affordable and better suited to your needs.

With Homewise, you can:

Secure a new, more energy-efficient home for thousands less
Free up funds to support your lifestyle and cover rising living costs
Potentially reduce your monthly expenses, easing the impact of rising bills
Gain peace of mind knowing you’ll have security in your new home for life

The Home for Life Plan helps our customers move into a more suitable property—without the financial strain of traditional routes. Whether you’re looking to downsize, reduce costs, or secure a comfortable future, we’re here to help.

We're On Your Side

Bradleys is proud to be a trusted name for over-60s across the South West. We don’t just list homes—we listen to what our customers need and offer real, practical solutions. If you or someone you know is struggling with rising costs, let’s talk about how the Home for Life Plan could offer a better way forward.

Get in touch with your local Bradleys branch today or visit our Homewise partnership page to find out more and use our calculator to see how much you could save:

www.bradleys-estate-agents.co.uk/pages/homewise

Supporting Over-60s Through Rising Costs: How Bradleys and Homewise Can Help

More Stories