Targeted support for older people

Between 2018 and 2023 we wrote to nearly 8,000 people aged over 75 who were claiming Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction who may also have been entitled to claim a disability benefit such as Attendance Allowance. After helping people make benefit claims, we raised over £10 million in previously unclaimed benefits. 

Attendance Allowance is a benefit for people who need help with personal care and the activities of daily living because of the effects of a disability. It can be worth up to £101.75 per week, and can also increase a persons entitlement to other benefits.

Gov.uk: Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit paid to top up  a persons pension income. Many people over age 66 are missing out because they do not realise they can claim this additional payment. Even a small weekly award of Pension Credit will entitle you to help with health costs such as glasses and dental treatment, and a free TV licence if you are 75 or over. 

Latest campaign

In October 2024 we wrote to over 2000 households that could be eligible for Pension Credit, an extra amount paid by Government to assist with living costs for people on low incomes.

If you receive Pension Credit you are also entitled to receive other financial help, including support with heating bills during the coldest months. You may be eligible to claim Pension Credit can visit Gov.uk: Pension Credit or call the Pension Credit Claim line on 0800 99 1234.

Our Welfare Rights team also offers specialised, independent and confidential advice. Find more information on how they can help at Benefits advice or help with a benefits appeal. 

You can also get support, confidential and free advice, from Age UK County Durham, tel: 0191 386 3856.

Tenants of the following organisations can also get support and advice from:

Anchor: 0800 023 4477 (freephone)

believe housing: 0300 1311 999

Bernicia: 0344 800 3800

Home Group: 0345 141 4663

Karbon Homes: 0808 164 0111 (freephone)

Livin: 0800 587 4538 (freephone)

North Star: 03000 11 00 11

Recent examples of how we have helped

Mrs R had a state pension and an Army pension, but still qualified for Pension Credit of £13 per week. We helped her to make the claim online, and the welfare rights officer stayed in touch until the payments began.

Mr S had a state pension of £214 per week. Because he also gets Attendance Allowance and lives alone with no carer, he qualified for Pension Credit of £38 per week. 

Mrs D was aged 89 and lived alone, she was struggling with personal care during the day and the night. She was awarded the highest rate of Attendance Allowance, £101.75 per week. Once in receipt of Attendance Allowance she also qualified for Council Tax Reduction of £200 per year.