An estimated 4,700 of Caerphilly County Borough’s poorest pensioners face poverty may be living in unnecessary poverty.
According to charity, Independent Age, up to 38% of pensioners across the UK are failing to claim Pension Credit, an important basic benefit that is intended to top-up the pensions of the poorest to at least £145.40 a week.
Independent Age has launched a free ‘Wise Guide’ book to help Caerphilly’s poorest pensioners put more cash in their pockets. The guide is available by calling 0800 319 6789 and www.independentage.org.
Victoria Richards, Head of Advice and Support at Independent Age, said: “With rising prices a huge source of anxiety to many pensioners, Pension Credit really can make all the difference to those in later life.
“In some cases, it can also passport pensioners to other benefits such as council tax and housing benefit. And when claimed with Attendance Allowance, it can almost double some people’s incomes. But it does have to be claimed – and our new Wise Guide shows you how.”