Many older households in the UK are unaware of the financial support available to them. A partnership between the Rothesay Foundation and Age UK is helping pensioners access unclaimed benefits, offering vital relief and stability.
Pensioners Could Get Up to £170 Extra per Week Through a Simple Benefits Check
By Chourouk Derkaoui
Published on 29 November 2024 11:39
An under-rated service allows pensioners to claim extra benefits, with some households receiving up to an extra £170 a week from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Now, one 75-year-old woman, Penny, has discovered that she is entitled to an extra £68.10 a week after completing a quick benefits check.
Penny’s Journey to Unlocking Attendance Allowance
This check revealed that she qualified for Attendance Allowance, a benefit which does not affect her existing pension. Penny, who relies on crutches due to a fractured hip and osteoporosis, was informed of this possibility by a letter from the Rothesay Foundation highlighting its partnership with Age UK.
Based on this information, she contacted the Age UK advice line, which facilitated her request.
“I thought I should have been claiming this years ago! Age UK arranged for me to be sent all the information, which was very helpful. I was so concerned with heating costs last winter, now, I think I’ll be okay. I am so pleased with the service; it helped me so much. Without Age UK’s help, I would never have been able to claim Attendance Allowance, or even known I was entitled to it,” Penny shared.
Expanding Access to Benefits for Older Households
The partnership between the Rothesay Foundation and Age UK aims to support over 11,000 older people in accessing unclaimed benefits over the next two years.
“Too many older people are living in need in the UK, despite being eligible and entitled to greater financial support.” — James Dickson, Chairman of the Rothesay Foundation.
Local Solutions for Easier Access to Benefits
In addition, Age UK is working to make benefit checks more accessible by involving 11 local branches in the delivery of this service within communities. With staff trained to help complete applications, the initiative aims to ensure that older households can access the financial help they need.
“At Age UK, we are committed to ensuring that every older person can afford to heat their home and enjoy a hot meal at least once a day.” — Paul Farmer, CEO of Age UK.
This collaboration is already making a significant difference in the lives of many pensioners, offering financial stability and much-needed peace of mind.