Cherilyn Mackrory, MP for Truro and Falmouth, has welcomed a new campaign from the Conservative Government to boost the take up of Pension Credit in Truro and Falmouth, giving more people the security of savings in later life.
Pension Credit is a top-up for our most vulnerable pensioners worth an average of £3,300. As well as a cash top-up to the State Pension, it is a passport to a suite of other benefits such as help with housing costs, council tax reduction schemes, heating bills and a free over-75s TV licence.
There are already 2348 claimants of Pension Credit in Truro and Falmouth, but we know around 25 per cent of people who could claim the extra help do not currently do so.
To help, the Conservative Government has launched a major campaign to encourage eligible pensioners and those who care for and support older people to access the help they are entitled to.
Cherilyn said:
“I recognise the challenges some pensioners in Truro and Falmouth will be facing with the cost of living, which is why it is right the Government is promoting Pension Credit as a priority.
While it is positive that 2348 pensioners in Truro and Falmouth already claim Pension Credit, we must make sure everybody in our area is are aware of what they are entitled to.
I look forward to promoting the new campaign so that all eligible pensioners and those who care and support older people can access the help they deserve.”
Commenting, Minister for Pensions, Guy Opperman, said:
“Pension Credit provides a vital income ‘top up’ for some of our most vulnerable pensioners – worth more than £3,300 on average.”
The good news is the latest figures show take-up is at the highest level since 2010 and around 1.4 million pensioners currently receive it. But there is much more to do to reach those who could claim but don’t.”
“That’s why I’ve written to local newspapers across the country, produced leaflets for 11 million pensioners and will be holding a Media Day in June to ensure everybody knows where to get extra help to which they are entitled.”