Stirling MP backs Credit where it’s due campaign
Stirling MP Stephen Kerr has thrown his support behind a campaign aimed at at making sure pension credit reaches the pensioner households that need it. The campaign is being run by the charity ‘ Independent Age’
Research carried out by Grant Thornton LLP on behalf of the charity and using data supplied by the DWP shows a huge number of households across the UK and in Stirling that are not claiming this important benefit. Across the UK the research indicates that 3.5Billion goes unclaimed.
In Stirling it is estimated there that over £4 million of pension credit goes unclaimed every year, mostly as a result of older people not realising they are able to claim. Currently the research has shown that over 2000 households currently claim the benefit and receive an average of just over £50 per week. However there could be up to another 1600 households eligible but not currently claiming.
The issue has once again risen to prominence with the BBC’s announcement that the free TV license formerly given to all over 75’s will now only be given to over 75’s on Pension Credit, meaning people who are entitled but not claiming will lose out an extra £154 each year.
The Credit where it’s due campaign outlines several ways the UK Government can act to increase the takeup of pension credits, including consistent cross-referral across pension and benefit agencies, and playing a more active role in encouraging people to apply.
Find out if you're eligible and claim here: https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit/eligibility
Stephen Kerr MP said:
“I fully support this campaign, this is a really important benefit that can make a significant difference to peoples income. It is shocking that so many people are not claiming for something they are entitled to. I urge everyone to find out if they or their relatives might be able to get these payments. Anyone experiencing any difficulty in getting access to the information they need should contact my office."