A campaign to boost the take-up of pension credit has been unveiled by the UK Government, with a focus on ensuring those most in need receive winter fuel payments.

The Pension Credit Week of Action initiative aims to encourage retired individuals to verify their eligibility for the benefit payments and submit an application.

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Reports from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) indicate that approximately 880,000 qualified pensioners, including 70,000 to 80,000 in Wales, do not receive the entitled Pension Credit as they fail to claim it, equating to an average loss of £3,900 per year.

The awareness campaign arrives at a time of mounting criticism directed towards the Labour Government's policy, which will terminate universal winter fuel payments and limit benefit distributions to recipients of pension credit or other means-tested benefits.

Around 10 million pensioners are projected to be affected by the policy, a measure announced by the Government as part of its strategy to address a £22 billion "black hole".

Eligiblity

Pensioners with a weekly income below £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple are encouraged to use the DWP's online calculator to assess their eligibility for payments. Additional financial aid is available for individuals with severe disabilities, caregivers, and those responsible for a child or young person residing with them.

Pension Credit can encompass supplementary amounts to cover specific housing costs, including ground rent or service charges.

Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said:

“Thousands of pensioners are missing out on pension credit worth on average £3,900 per year. That needs to change.

“It’s easier than ever to check if you are eligible, including with our online calculator, and if your circumstances have changed since the last time you looked – I urge you to check again.

“Friends, families and neighbours can also encourage their loved ones to apply, so that they are not missing out on this vital benefit.”

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

“The legacy of failure on energy policy we have inherited means energy prices are set to rise in autumn. We must ensure that pensioners in the greatest need get access to help with rising bills.

“We will do everything in our power to increase take up of pension credit to the 880,000 households who are yet to claim – opening the door to other vital support such as the Winter Fuel Payment.

“The Government will also continue our mission to deliver clean power by 2030, helping to finally give families the energy security they deserve and our country the energy independence we need.”