UPDATE: The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has just announced a vital campaign that could see thousands of over-65s in the UK receive an extra £4,300 annually through Pension Credit. This urgent initiative targets pensioners who may be missing out on essential benefits.
Starting immediately, letters will be dispatched to 2,000 pensioners across England, urging them to claim Pension Credit, which averages around £83 per week. This effort is aimed particularly at the South West, where recent analysis reveals that only 55% of eligible pensioners are currently claiming the benefit.
The DWP’s analysis highlights a striking disparity in uptake rates across regions. In the North East, for instance, 71% of those eligible are claiming Pension Credit, making it the highest in the country. In stark contrast, the South East sees only 56% of pensioners claiming.
This initiative is part of a strategic partnership between the DWP, Age UK, and Independent Age. The previous campaign, which ran from 2023 to 2024, successfully awarded Pension Credit to an additional 56,700 households in just one year.
“If you’re in financial hardship, where you live shouldn’t be a factor in whether or not you receive the money you’re entitled to,” stated Morgan Vine, director of policy and influencing at Independent Age. “With the continued high cost of living, older people cannot afford to miss out on any eligible funds.”
As the cost of living crisis deepens, this campaign is crucial for many pensioners who are struggling financially. The DWP plans to monitor the success of this trial closely and may introduce further initiatives based on its outcomes.
For those who believe they qualify for Pension Credit, the DWP encourages checking eligibility and starting the application process online or by calling 0800 99 1234.
The regions with the lowest uptake rates include the South West at 55%, South East at 56%, East of England at 58%, and East Midlands at 61%. A breakdown of Pension Credit uptake by region shows:
- North East: 71%
- North West: 67%
- Yorkshire and The Humber: 64%
- East Midlands: 61%
- West Midlands: 65%
- East of England: 58%
- London: 69%
- South East: 56%
- South West: 55%
This development is not just a financial opportunity; it is a lifeline for many older citizens across the UK. The DWP urges all eligible pensioners to take action and claim what is rightfully theirs.
