Are you one of the people in our borough missing out on Pension Credit?

There are believed to be more than 600 older people in Blackburn with Darwen who could be claiming Pension Credit but aren’t.

The message from Blackburn with Darwen Council in partnership with Age UK Blackburn with Darwen is ‘Don’t rule yourself out’.

Claiming Pension Credit means you could get up to a few thousand pounds extra a year. To be eligible for this year’s Winter Fuel Payment a claim for Pension Credit must be made by December 21.

The Council is sending letters to encourage people to apply who are of a pension age, and that records show aren’t receiving pension credit.

There could also be other people who are also entitled to Pension Credit. You may be entitled to Pension Credit even if you have other income, savings, or own your own home.

As well as the Winter Fuel payments, Pension Credit can also lead to other entitlements such as free NHS dental treatment, NHS glasses and free TV Licence for over 75s.

Applications can be confusing, especially if you have never claimed before. Age UK Blackburn with Darwen can provide expert support and advice to check eligibility and help to claim through its offices in Blackburn Library and Darwen Town Hall.

Pension Credit is claimed through the Government’s Department for Work and Pensions – not the Council. You can find out more here.  Or call the Pension Credit Claim Line on: 0800 99 1234

Councillor Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said:

It makes sense for us to find these 600 people so that they have more money in their pockets.

Our calculations show that at least £1million extra could come to Blackburn with Darwen through these payments direct into people’s bank accounts. If you receive a letter from us stating that you can claim then please do look into it or get family or friends to help.

I would really urge anyone who thinks they can claim to take a look at the Government’s website and contact Age UK Blackburn with Darwen if you need any support with your application. This money is here for a reason – it is there to support you.

Vicky Shepherd, Chief Executive of Age UK Blackburn with Darwen, said:

We know that people often rule themselves out without checking.

If you need help our trained advisors can offer support to check entitlement and help to make an application.

To contact Age UK Blackburn with Darwen, pop into the offices in Blackburn Central Library or Darwen Town Hall, call 01254 266620, or visit their website.