OAPs ‘not claiming £8m a year in credits’
ROCHDALE pensioners are missing out on payments exceeding £8m a year, it’s been revealed.
Charity Independent Age uncovered the shock unclaimed pension credit figures in its report ‘Credit Where It’s Due’.
They showed that the Rochdale parliamentary constituency saw pension credit of £8,035,000 go unclaimed in 2016/17.
MP Tony Lloyd, who described it as an ‘alarmingly high figure’, backed the charity’s campaign, and called on the Government to implement a ‘credible plan’ to ensure 100 per cent of pension credit is received.
He said: “Too many of our pensioners, who are already struggling to get by and to make ends meet, are missing out on benefits they’re entitled
to - but don’t know exist.
“Our pensioners shouldn’t miss out on the security, dignity, and independence they deserve. This government simply has not done enough to let people know what they’re entitled to.”
Pension Credit is extra money for pensioners to bring their weekly income up to a minimum of £167.25pw for single people and £255.25 for a couple.
Some OAPs may also be eligible for savings credit.
Coun Ashley Dearnley, Rochdale council’s Conservative group leader, expressed his dismay that pensioners are not receiving money to which they’re entitled.
He told the Observer: “This is really unfortunate in a town that has such high levels of deprivation.
“As we are the most deprived borough, we need to make sure that when people are entitled they should be made aware of it.
“It benefits everyone, as well as the individual. It benefits the whole economy.”
Coun Dearnley, who is also shadow portfolio holder for health and wellbeing, added: “I will be taking action now to ensure that the council runs through its myriad of services to ensure that action is taken.”
George McNamara, director of policy and influencing at Independent Age, said: “The fact that Rochdale pensioners are missing out on more than £8m per year is a scandal.
“These are people who have worked hard for their entire lives and are now entitled to live a comfortable retirement, without having to constantly worry about basic living costs.
“It is the Government’s responsibility to ensure that pensioners in Rochdale and across the country are aware of their entitlements, and receive the Pension Credit that they are due.”
The Pension Credit hotline, which can answer queries or help people make an application can be contacted by freephone, on 0800 99 1234 on Monday to Friday between 8am and 7.30pm.