David Hanson MP supports Independent Age’s campaign to ensure that older people receive their Pension Credit

Recent figures published by Independent Age show that an estimated 1,749 older people in Delyn are missing out on a combined £4,468,000 every year.

The campaign is calling on the UK Government see at least 75 per cent of eligible people receive the Pension Credit by the end of 2020, at least 95% by the end of 2022, and 100% by 2025.

David Hanson MP said: “Delyn residents are missing out on nearly £4.5million of government support a year. This means that older people are struggling to pay their bills and live an independent life because the UK Government has not ensured they are aware of a welfare payment they are entitled to. People who pay into the system all their lives should be able to draw from it when they need it.

“But this problem goes much further than just removing money from the pockets of those most in need. It is also ensuring that money is being withheld from our towns and villages. £4.5million pounds would be wisely spent by our elderly in our local shops and ensure that our high streets had a new source of income. The UK Government is effectively withholding our money. This cannot stand.”

Pension Credit is an income-related benefit made up of 2 parts – Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit.

Guarantee Credit tops up your weekly income if its below £167.25 (for single people) or £255.25 (for couples). Savings Credit is an extra payment for people who saved some money towards their retirement, for example a pension.

In Wales, 80,000 people are missing out on £214million.

Pension Credit makes a major difference to the lies of older people, enabling them to afford the very basics and to live with more independence and dignity.

Independent Age is a charity that offer free and impartial advice to people on the issues that matter to them later in life. Ranging from care and support, money and benefits, health and mobility. Independent Age was founded over 150 years ago.

Mr Hanson added: “Another worrying fact behind this is the new concession to over-75s for free TV licences is based upon those getting Pension Credit. If people don’t claim this benefit they will not get a free TV licence. Not only has the UK Government broken its promise on maintaining free TV licences for over-75s they have ensured that the risks of pensioner poverty increase.

“I have joined Independent Age in their campaign to get the UK Government to pay pensioners their pension credit. We must see 100 per cent of Pension Credit paid to Delyn residents by 2025. There can be no more delay and penny pinching.”