It is really worrying that an estimated 1.8 million pensioners live in poverty and almost two in every five of those entitled to pension credit do not receive it. Many also suffer from ill health and disabilities where they could get help to support their care needs.It is for this reason that West Sussex County Council and the 9 Citizens Advice Bureau in West Sussex have come together to launch an 18 month campaign to ensure that at least 2,850 pensioners in the county enjoy an increased income from these benefits.Many pensioners miss out because they do not realise that they are entitled to Pension Credit; some are daunted by what they see as a complicated system or don’t know how to claim. Others feel there is a stigma attached to claiming benefits and are too proud to claim what they see as charity or handouts.
To give a couple of simple examples:
A retired pensioner of 70, living alone would get a retirement pension of £90.70 per week. Even he or she owned their house they would get a further £33.35 pension credit and could also get council tax benefits to cover those payments.
A couple of 70 with a combined income of £200 per week made up of state retirement pension and small occupational pension, with savings of £10,000 could find themselves drawing an extra £21.87 per week as well as having the majority of their council tax and any rent paid.
Furthermore, if they had health problems, depending on the severity of their disability, they could additionally claim between £45 and £67 per week Attendance Allowance per person. If a relative or friend was providing care, they could claim a further £50.55 per week. Further more, someone living alone could also be eligible to premium of £50.55 per week.
We now have a worker dedicated to helping pensioners claim their full entitlement and we will be talking to a many agencies and groups as possible to encourage take up of these benefits. If you feel they you may be entitled to these benefits or particularly if you know of anyone else who may be, we urge you to contact us on our benefits helpline 01903 532234(Mondays only) or email jcannon@worthingcab.org .We are more than happy to come round to your home to discuss, these and the whole range of benefits, and the Bureau is able to help on other issues such as debt and housing issues.
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