James Wild MP has welcomed a new campaign from the government to boost the take-up of Pension Credit in North West Norfolk as part of wider support with the cost of living.
Pension Credit is a top up for the most vulnerable pensioners that is worth an average of £3,300. As well as a cash top up to the State Pension, it is a passport to suite of other benefits such as help with housing costs, council tax reduction schemes, heating bills and a free over-75's TV licence.
There are already 2,628 claimants of Pension Credit in North West Norfolk but around 25 per cent of people who could claim the extra help do not currently do so.
Nationwide, the government has driven take-up of Pension Credit to the highest level since 2010 but now wants to reach the 850,000 people who could still benefit but have not yet applied.
To help, 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.
Commenting James said:
"While it is encouraging that many pensioners in North West Norfolk are already claiming Pension Credit, others are missing out on the support they are entitled to. I encourage everyone who thinks they might be eligible to check whether they could benefit from this extra help.”
Pension Credit can be claimed online, by telephone or by post. Information is available on Gov.UK website www.gov.uk/pension-creditor by calling the Freephone Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.
