Selaine Saxby MP welcomes the new campaign from the Government to boost the uptake of Pension Credit, giving more pensioners across North Devon the support they need. There are already 2,367 claimants in North Devon who benefit from an average of £3,500 a year in extra support.
It is estimated that around 25 per cent of people who could claim the extra help do not currently do so, which means potentially over 750 more North Devon pensioners are not claiming this help. Pensioners registered for Pension Credit have also received their second cost of living payments of £324, and if people register before 18th December, they will still be eligible for this payment too.
Pension Credit is a top up for our 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 on Gov.UK website www.gov.uk/pension-creditor by calling the Freephone Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.
Selaine Saxby, MP for North Devon said:
“I am glad that 2,367 pensioners in North Devon are already claiming the Government support they are eligible to. As a member of the Work and Pensions Select Committee we have heard evidence about the low take up of Pension Credit.
“This is a challenging winter with the rise in the cost of energy, and too many pensioners in North Devon are not taking advantage of this additional income to which they are entitled, so please do check whether you or a loved one can claim and get the extra cost of living payment before 18th December.”
Minister for Pensions, Laura Trott, MP for Sevenoaks, said:
“The run up to Christmas is always a busy time, but one thing to make sure that’s on your list over the coming days is to find out whether you or your loved ones could be eligible for Pension Credit.
“Pension Credit can make a real difference and I am determined to make sure this support–worth an average of £3,500 per year–is reaching everyone who needs it.”
