THOUSANDS of Scots pensioners are vulnerable to the largely unrecognised problems of loneliness which can often leave them feeling that they lead pointless lives, according to campaigners.

It is claimed the lack of anyone to turn to for many pensioners is more damaging to their health than heavy smoking and obesity.

Now the older people's charity, Age Scotland, has welcomed a newly launched phone line that gives them access to friendship, factual information and other advice to help their lives.

Chief executive Brian Sloan said: "We take information and advice calls from around 12,000 people a year on a wide range of issues from care costs and benefits to keeping warm in winter.

"We're very excited that this partnership is allowing us to extend this service, offering older people across Scotland access to accredited information, advice and now friendship."

The 24-hour free Silver Line has been launched by Esther Rantzen, the former presenter of the BBC's That's Life after a year-long pilot.

Ms Rantzen, who founded ChildLine for youngsters to report bullying and other abuse, claimed how it is already saving the life of older people.

She said: "One lady wrote to me and said 'I feel my life is pointless, that I'm a waste of space'."

The Silver Line aims to link lonely older people to services in their own area.

It will provide a befriending service and will also help those who may be suffering from abuse or neglect.

Ms Rantzen added: "We will signpost people to the services in their community and by showing them we value them and care about them, we will restore their confidence and feelings of self-worth."

Kate Jopling, director for the Campaign to End Loneliness, said: "Loneliness is a shockingly common problem, but admitting we are lonely can be incredibly hard to do because of the stigma that surrounds it.

"When people find the courage ask for help, it is vital that someone is there to listen - which is why a 24-hour phone line, where people are always on hand to take your call, is such an important addition to the safety net available to older people. Many of us feel isolated and lonely - but there are people and organisations out there ready and willing to help. We hope that Esther Rantzen's new project The Silver Line will provide a really prominent new gateway to this support."

David McCullough, chief executive of the Royal Voluntary Service, added: "Older people across the country face an array of challenges, from isolation and loneliness to struggling with health and financial issues."

l SNP MP Mike Weir told the Commons yesterday that the tax-free winter fuel allowance of up to £300 needed to be given out no later than September 30 to off-gas grid claimants instead of November or December, as currently happens.