Jane Hunt MP has welcomed a new pilot from the Government to boost the take-up of Pension Credit as part of wider support with the cost of living.
The Government is calling on pensioners across the country to check if they are entitled to Pension Credit as soon as possible to ensure they are receiving all the support they are entitled to.
Under the scheme, pensioners in Loughborough who are currently receiving Housing Benefit will receive a letter encouraging them to apply for Pension Credit, as part of the Government’s campaign to drive up the number of eligible pensioners receiving this support.
Pension Credit is a top up for the most vulnerable pensioners that is worth an average of £3,500. As well as a cash top up to the State Pension, this can help pensioners access other support such as help with housing costs, council tax reduction schemes, heating bills and a free over-75s TV licence.
Pension Credit can be claimed online or over the phone. Information is available at www.gov.uk/pension-credit or by calling the Freephone Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.
Commenting, Jane Hunt MP said:
“We know that many eligible pensioners locally have not yet applied for Pension Credit, meaning they are missing out on support.”
“It is fantastic news that the Government is working hard to change that and is running a pilot in the Loughborough constituency to encourage local pensioners who may be eligible for an extra £3,500 of support through Pension Credit to apply.”
“This will make a huge difference to vulnerable people across the constituency so I urge everyone to look into whether they, or their loved ones, are eligible.”
Commenting, Minister for Pensions, Laura Trott MBE MP, said:
“We recognise the challenges pensioners will be facing with the cost of living, which is why, alongside driving down inflation, promoting Pension Credit is a top priority.”
“Pension Credit take-up is at the highest level since 2010, and this trial will help us test even more ways to ensure pensioners are receiving all the support they can.”
