Clive Lewis For Norwich South
I’m joining Independent Age in calling on the government to do more to make sure more of those entitled to claim Pension Credit are aware they can do so.
Just 2,000 people accessed the government’s ‘Pension Credit toolkit’ last year. More must be done to promote this benefit and ensure it is accessible to all who are eligible.
New research published by Independent Age has indicated that as many as 1.3 million pensioner households across the UK may not be receiving the Pension Credit they are entitled to. An estimated £5,759,000 each year isn’t being claimed by people who are eligible in Norwich.
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit which supports those who are retired and on low income by raising their weekly income up to a minimum amount. Receipt of Pension Credit also entitles people to further help including free prescriptions and full housing benefit. Last month, it was announced that free TV licences for over-75s will also become means-tested and linked to Pension Credit. It’s vital that this range of support is opened up to everyone who might benefit from it.