THE increase in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) will wipe out some essential services for vulnerable older people, Age UK says.

A survey by the charity, released today, estimates that the policy will cost its local groups £6.27 million this year, prompting staff cuts, increased charges on paid-for services and ultimately the closure of some services if they can no longer balance the books.

Employer NICs will rise from 13.8 per cent to 15 per cent from April.