Joanna Cherry MP is supporting Age Scotland’s campaign to urge pensioners in Edinburgh South West not to miss out on £4,007,713 in unclaimed benefits.
New figures reveal that 1,401 households in the constituency are missing out on Pension Credit, costing them an average of £55.42 per week.
Not only do they lose vital weekly income, but they are also missing out on associated benefits such as a Housing Benefit, Council Tax reduction and Cold Weather Payments. From 2020, only those aged over 75 who receive Pension Credit will be entitled to a free TV licence.
Joanna Cherry MP has joined the charity to urge pensioners to find out if they are entitled to the extra benefit by speaking to Age Scotland’s friendly helpline advisors.
Joanna Cheery MP said:
It’s shocking that thousands of pensioners in Edinburgh South West are missing out on money they deserve. They’ve worked hard and contributed throughout their lives and are entitled to a decent standard of living in retirement. I’d encourage anyone who thinks they might be entitled to Pension Credit to call the free Age Scotland helpline for a benefit check.
Brian Sloan, Age Scotland’s Chief Executive, said
We’re delighted that Joanna Cherry MP is supporting our campaign. It’s unacceptable that so many pensioners in Edinburgh South West are spending their later years worrying about how to pay the next bill.
Many people don’t claim Pension Credit because they’re not aware of it, find the process confusing, or feel too proud to accept help. But this is money they have earned and claiming it doesn’t have to be difficult or complicated.
Last year Age Scotland’s Helpline helped callers claim almost £600,000 in benefits, making a huge difference to their everyday lives. If you or someone you know might be missing out, you can call free on 0800 12 44 222.
Pension Credit tops up weekly income if it is below £167.25 (for single people) or £255.25 (for couples). However, across Scotland, an estimated 40 per cent of people who are entitled to it don’t claim it, losing an estimated £332 million each year.
Almost six in ten single pensioners and four in 10 pensioner couples already struggle to pay their heating bills and 38 per cent of older people feel financially squeezed.
