Nigel Huddleston, Member of Parliament for Droitwich and Evesham, is urging constituents to check their eligibility for Pension Credit. Around 1.4 million pensioners are already receiving Pension Credit, however an estimated 880,000 households are eligible for the support but are not claiming it – including many in the Droitwich and Evesham constituency.
Pension Credit could be worth on average £3,900 per year, and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) regularly conduct campaigns to increase the uptake of this benefit. Previous campaigns have had an overwhelmingly positive effect, with the number of applications increasing by around 75 per cent in the 12 months to May 2023, for example, compared with the same period in 2022.
Local MP Nigel Huddleston is supporting new efforts to increase Pension Credit update. Commenting on the latest campaign, Huddleston said:
“Over the last few years I have been encouraging constituents to check their eligibility for Pension Credit, as there will be many in my constituency who are missing out on this benefit despite meeting the eligibility criteria. But this year it is even more important that my constituents check their eligibility following the cuts to Winter Fuel Payments announced by the new Government.
Anyone in receipt of Pension Credit will be automatically enrolled to receive the Winter Fuel Payment, and it is easier than ever to check if you are eligible. I again urge all constituents in Drotiwich, Evesham and the villages to see if they qualify for this vital support. Applications can be made online or by calling the claim line on 0800 99 1234.”
The last possible date to make a successful backdated claim in order to receive the Winter Fuel Payment is Saturday 21st December. Families, friends and neighbours are strongly encouraged to reach out to retired family members and members of the local community, encourage them to check their eligibility and apply for Pension Credit, in order to maximise the uptake.
