Zina Kumok
Updated on: October 14, 2024 1:31 pm GMT
Pensioners in Neath Port Talbot, Wales, have received a remarkable boost, collectively claiming nearly £250,000 in additional benefits. This significant increase is largely attributed to efforts to raise awareness about pension credit, a vital financial support that numerous seniors may be missing out on. As the winter months approach, the urgency for pensioners to check their eligibility for this essential benefit has never been greater.
Campaign Success in Neath Port Talbot
Since the beginning of a targeted campaign in 2024, over 70 households have benefited from £232,326 in pension credit payments, along with access to £14,600 in winter fuel payments. Rachael Walker from Policy in Practice, who has been collaborating with Neath Port Talbot Council, emphasized that local initiatives are significantly more effective at increasing participation than general outreach approaches.
- Increased awareness leads to higher claims.
- Campaigns target specific communities using data to reach eligible pensioners.
- Local authorities play a critical role in identifying those who may qualify.
Simon Knoyle, the cabinet member for social justice in Neath Port Talbot, expressed optimism about the campaign’s early achievements. “We believe it has been a really good start, but this is only the start,” he said. His hope is to reach even more pensioners who have yet to claim the benefits to which they are entitled.
Understanding Pension Credit
Pension credit is designed to support those who have reached state pension age but live on a low income. It can be a lifeline, providing yearly awards that average about £3,900. Here’s a quick breakdown of the eligibility criteria:
- You must be over the state pension age.
- Your income should be less than £218.15 weekly (or less than £332.95 for couples).
- Additional financial factors, such as savings, will also be considered.
Receiving pension credit can unlock various other benefits, including the winter fuel payment, aid with rent, and free television licenses for those over 75.
The Winter Fuel Payment Challenge
Starting this winter, pensioners who do not claim pension credit may lose their winter fuel payment. This change poses a significant concern as rising energy costs could impact seniors who rely on these payments to help cover their heating expenses.
A Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) spokesperson stated that they are working with various partners to encourage pensioners to verify their eligibility for pension credit. Rachael Walker noted that if pension credit is under-claimed, the consequences could be severe for those who miss out.
“We’re urging anyone who thinks they might be entitled to check their eligibility now,” said the spokesperson.
Real-Life Impact: The Story of Janette
Eighty-year-old Janette from Creunant in Neath Port Talbot serves as a testament to the positive change that awareness can spark. After discovering the potential benefits through a television program, she began claiming pension credit. “I thought I might be eligible for that so I looked into it and I was,” Janette shared.
Janette’s advice for others considering applying is clear: “Go for it, you’ve got nothing to lose.”
Effective Outreach Strategies
The goal of campaigns like the one in Neath Port Talbot is not only to inform but to actively encourage applications for pension credit. According to Rachael Walker, local authorities have valuable data that allows them to directly contact those eligible for assistance. This targeted approach, as she stated, “takes away the mental maths and fear that someone might apply and be rejected.”
Furthermore, independent organizations, like the charity Neath Port Talbot Age Connects, are also stepping up to guide older residents through the application process. “Anything that enables people to claim what they have a right to is welcome,” said Katrin Shaw, a trustee at the charity.
The Bigger Picture: Closing the Claim Gap
Across the United Kingdom, an estimated 880,000 pensioners are missing out on pension credit, translating to approximately £117 million unclaimed in Wales this year alone. There is a pressing need to foster an environment where seniors feel confident in checking their eligibility and applying for support.
Reports indicate that following the DWP’s efforts to promote pension credit awareness, there was a 115% increase in claims within five weeks. This notable rise illustrates the effectiveness of campaigns to engage older adults regarding available financial support.
What’s Next?
With fuel bills continuing to rise and the winter period approaching, the importance of claiming pension credit becomes increasingly apparent. Pensioners in Neath Port Talbot can benefit from ongoing support and initiatives from local authorities and charities to explore their eligibility.
As concluded by Simon Knoyle, the endeavor is only the beginning: “We’re hoping to find more people who are eligible who haven’t claimed to date, to be able to lead them in the right direction to obtain those benefits.”
Pensioners are urged to get in touch and find out if they can get help. There are many ways to do this, like through local programs, charities, or resources from the DWP. It’s important to take action now so everyone can get the money support they deserve.
