In February, Dundee City Council Advice Services launched a campaign with Dundee Citizens Advice Bureau and the Brooksbank Centre to maximise the income of as many citizens of Dundee as possible over the state pension age.
Since the launch of this campaign, over £1 079 431 has been paid to the citizens of Dundee in different benefits. With the average Pension Credit award being £63.51 per week.
The City Council identified and contacted households who might be entitled to Pension Credit and to reach as many people as possible, held several well attended drop-in sessions for people to get a benefits check.
Pension Credit is a payment for those whose income is less than the UK Government states someone over Pension age should receive.
Entitlement to Pension Credit depends on a person’s circumstances and looks at all the income in the household as well as savings over a certain amount. Whilst savings are considered, there is no upper threshold, so having savings does not necessarily mean there would be no entitlement.
Pension Credit also gives eligibility to free NHS dental treatment, NHS glasses, free TV License for over 75s, amongst other benefits.
The campaign is ongoing and anyone looking to get a benefits check should contact the City Council at cas@dundeecity.gov.uk or on the Older People’s Take-up Campaign line on 01382 434474.