Colchester City Council's Financial Equality and Wellbeing team is actively encouraging residents of pensionable age to apply for Pension Credit, a vital benefit that could significantly boost their income. Through personalised support, the team has already helped numerous residents navigate the application process, ensuring they receive the benefits they are entitled to.
Pension Credit not only supplements the State Pension but also provides access to additional benefits, including full Local Council Tax Support, the Winter Fuel Payment, reduced NHS costs, and a free TV license for those over 75. Despite its advantages, many pensioners are either unaware of their eligibility or hesitant to apply due to the perceived hassle. Many also believe that they will not qualify, but there are additional eligibility criteria, such as disability or being a carer, that mean many people may be missing out on this vital support.
One local resident, who retired in June 2024, had heard of Pension Credit but put off applying as she wasn't sure it was worth the effort. After receiving a letter from a Financial Equality Specialist, she decided to submit her application the same day. She was awarded Pension Credit, which restored her full Local Council Tax Support and made her eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment.
"I had heard about Pension Credit but did not think it was worth the hassle," the resident said. "I am so grateful that the team reached out and convinced me to apply."
In another case, the team assisted a resident they met during a money management course. She had been financially struggling on a reduced State Pension, limiting her heating, lighting, water usage, and food intake to cut down on costs. Although she was paying full council tax, she thought the single person discount was the only support she could receive. With the team's help, she applied for Pension Credit, which was awarded and backdated by three months.
“I didn't think that I would be entitled to Pension Credit,” she explained. “If it had not been for the team's kind encouragement and support, I would not have bothered applying.”
The Financial Equality and Wellbeing team also supported a local gentleman who had been previously homeless and was now settled in social housing. Although eager to work, health issues and a reduced State Pension left him struggling financially. Unable to navigate the digital application process, he contacted the Council regarding his Housing Benefit, and the team submitted a Pension Credit application on his behalf. He has since thanked the team for their support, saying they were “very helpful and kind" and that "he did not expect it would be so easy to apply.”
Councillor Mark Cory, Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Resources, praised the team: “Our Financial Equality and Wellbeing team continues to make a real difference in the lives of Colchester's older residents. Pension Credit opens the door to various other benefits, including housing, healthcare, and essential utilities. With the cut to Winter Fuel Allowance made by the new government, many Colchester pensioners will need further support. Get in touch with our team to get advice.”
"If you think you or a relative might be eligible, or even if you're unsure, we urge you to contact us," said Councillor Cory. "The application process is easier than many think, and the support you can access is life changing."
How to Apply
Residents can find out more about Pension Credit and how to apply by visiting the Colchester City Council website. The Financial Equality and Wellbeing team is available to provide guidance through every step of the application process, ensuring no one misses out on the benefits they deserve.
Page last reviewed: 16 September 2024