Could you be missing out on money?  Information event tomorrow (Friday, February 21)

Residents in Blackburn with Darwen are feeling the benefits of extra financial support thanks to free help from Age UK – and you could be eligible too!

Many older people don’t realise they qualify for Pension Credit, a benefit designed to top up income and unlock additional support, including help with council tax, energy bills, and even health costs.

Thanks to Age UK’s friendly and expert guidance, local residents have received thousands of pounds in extra support, transforming their financial situations.

Find out more at Blackburn Market – tomorrow!

To help even more people check if they’re eligible, Age UK Blackburn with Darwen will be holding an information event at Blackburn Market tomorrow, Friday, February 21, from 9am to 1:30pm.

Pop by for a friendly chat with the team, who will be on hand to provide free, confidential support and help you start the application process.

Age UK have shared more real stories, to highlight the real impact is it having on local people.

Take Margaret, a 70-year-old woman who thought she was just about getting by. After receiving help to apply for Pension Credit, she now receives an extra £132.66 per week – and even got a £2,785.86 back payment plus a Winter Fuel Payment. Her response? “You’ve made me very comfortably off.”

Then there’s John, a 67-year-old carer. While getting support for his friend, he discovered that he was also entitled to the Carer Premium. This not only reduced his council tax bill by two-thirds but also made him eligible for Household Support Fund payments, easing financial pressure.

And for Anne, aged 71, the difference was life-changing. She never thought she’d qualify for Pension Credit, but after a simple check, she now gets £42.64 extra per week – plus help with her energy bills and the cost of living. Best of all? Once everything is processed, she can finally afford new teeth, something she never thought possible. That’s something to smile about!

Councillor Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, is encouraging more people to take advantage of the support available. He said: “It’s fantastic to see how Age UK is helping local residents access the financial support they are entitled to.

“These extra payments are life-changing, especially at a time when the cost of living is putting real pressure on so many people. If you or someone you know could be eligible, I strongly encourage you to check – a simple phone call could make all the difference.”

Vicky Shepherd, Chief Executive of Age UK Blackburn with Darwen, added: “We know that hundreds of older people across the borough could be entitled to Pension Credit but aren’t claiming it.

“Many don’t realise they qualify, especially if they own their home or have some savings.

“Our team is here to provide free, confidential support – we’ll check your eligibility and help with applications. Even if you’ve been turned down before, rules change, and it’s always worth checking again. Come and see us at Blackburn Market tomorrow – we’d love to help.”

Could you be missing out?

These are just a few examples of how a quick benefit check can make a huge difference. Too many eligible pensioners are missing out on support every year – could you or someone you know be one of them?

Don’t let financial support go unclaimed. If you or someone you know is over State Pension age, get in touch with Age UK today and see what you could be entitled to.

📞 Call Age UK Blackburn with Darwen on: 01254 266620 or email: enquiries@ageukbwd.org.uk

🌐 Visit: www.ageuk.org.uk

📍 Come along to Blackburn Market tomorrow, 9am – 1:30pm, for free support!

A simple check could change your life – just like it has for local residents Margaret, John, and Anne.