I urge older people across Stourbridge to check if they are eligible for Pension Credit as the benefit could help with cost-of-living pressures.
Pension Credit is a top up that is worth an average of £3,300. As well as a cash top up to the state pension, it also acts as a passport to other benefits such as help with housing costs, council tax reduction schemes, heating bills and a free over-75s TV licence. Nearly 2250 claim it in Stourbridge but it is thought around 25% of people who could claim the extra help do not currently do so – meaning there are potentially hundreds in the constituency who could get help.
Rising costs are a major concern for many people in Stourbridge and this support could make a huge difference to many older people. I would not like to think that even one person is missing out on this benefit in Stourbridge and I urge older people and their families and carers to look into whether they are eligible for this substantial support. Some older people are vulnerable at the moment as energy and other costs rise. I know that some can be reluctant to seek help or they are unaware they can have it. Many have worked all their lives and they deserve this support. Please double check by getting in touch at the contact details below.
Pension Credit can be claimed online, by telephone or by post. Information is available on Gov.UK website www.gov.uk/pension-credit or by calling the Freephone Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.
To raise awareness, the Government has launched a major campaign to encourage eligible pensioners, as well as those who care for and support older people, to access the help they are entitled to. The Department for Work and Pensions will send leaflets to 11 million pensioners. A high-profile media day will also take place on 15 June 2022.
