A free helpline has been launched to support people in Swansea over the age of 66 who may be missing out on extra income through unclaimed benefits.
Government figures show that two in every five people who qualify for Pension Credit do not claim what they are entitled to and are on average missing out on £39-a-week.
Swansea Council’s Welfare Rights Team has joined with partner organisations in the area to launch a campaign to raise awareness and increase take-up.
It includes a free phone number 0800 112 4763 for people to call between 10am and 3pm Monday to Thursday for advice and support.
Alyson Pugh, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Supporting Communities, said: “We know that there are pensioners in Swansea who are struggling to make ends meet yet are missing out on money that they are entitled to.
“We also know that each additional £1 people receive is worth £4 to the local economy so by claiming benefits that they are entitled to, they help support local jobs and local businesses and we desperately need this, especially now.
“Entitlement to Pension Credit also accesses claimants to fringe benefits including help with travel costs to hospital and NHS charges, access to a free TV licence, discretionary assistance payments to assist with purchasing one off items and they are automatically passported through the financial means test for housing benefit and council tax reduction.
“This is vital help that people are entitled to so I would urge anyone who thinks they may be eligible to call the helpline where they will receive friendly and informative advice and assistance.”
Cllr Pugh added: “I’m very proud that our Welfare Rights Team is working so closely with our partners to highlight this and I would like to thank all organisations involved in this campaign.”
