Margaret Mullane MP is urging those of pensionable age, who may be entitled to Pension Credit, to ensure they are in receipt of it so that they can continue to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.
In 2019 research from Independent Age highlighted that there was over £6 million unclaimed Pension Credit in Dagenham and Rainham, and a recent report from Age UK has stated that four in ten eligible pensioners across Britain are not claiming the support that they are entitled to. Two of the key factors driving low take up are a lack of awareness and access to online services.
Margaret commented: “In Dagenham and Rainham there is still a high proportion of elderly residents without access to the internet or a smartphone, with many still relying on the television, local newspapers, radio, and word of mouth to get their information and news. If you are reading this and think you might be eligible for Pension Credit, please call the Pension Credit claim line, or ask a friend or relative to do it for you, on 0800 99 1234. Lines are open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm.”
Under new legislation only those claiming Pension Credit will be eligible to the Winter Fuel Payment. Labour have brought forward a three-step plan to ensure that vulnerable pensioners do not fall through the gaps and miss out this winter. The Government have pledged to work with charities and local councils to increase Pension Credit applications, speed up the DWP’s own awareness campaign, and aim to deliver the much-needed merger of Housing Benefit with Pension Credit.
Margaret explained: “The previous Tory Government left us with the worst inheritance since the Second World War, manifesting as a £22 billion black hole in Britain’s finances. Rebuilding the foundation of our economy is no small feat and difficult decisions must be taken. I am determined to ensure that vulnerable pensioners in Dagenham and Rainham don’t pay the price for Tory incompetence, and I will be meeting with Age UK in the coming weeks to find out how I can further support my constituents to apply for Pension Credit.”
If you have access to the internet, you can check your eligibility for Pension Credit and apply here: https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit/eligibility
Or you can call the Government Pension Credit claim line on: 0800 99 1234
If you are still experiencing issues and need additional support, please contact the office of Margaret Mullane MP on 020 8984 7854 and a member of staff will talk you through the process of applying.
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