Information about the Project

Over £4bn of benefits for people over 65 go unclaimed every year in the UK! In Leicestershire this means tens of millions of pounds; a colossal amount.

This is money that should be reducing hardship and improving the quality of life of thousands of older people throughout the county. It is money that will significantly help older people stay active, healthy and independent longer. It can make vital differences to an older persons well being.

Within Leicestershire (as part of the Leicestershire Local Area Agreement), the County Council has joined forces with voluntary sector agencies, our seven District Councils and the Pension Service to encourage people to claim the cash they are entitled to.

Many people do not know that they qualify for benefits, or know how to apply and/or are afraid of the often complex application process and forms. This is why local voluntary organisations such as Age Concern and the Pension Service have trained advisors available throughout the year to offer practical assistance to older people across Leicestershire. Both organisations have visiting staff that may visit people in their homes to help fill in forms.

Many people are surprised that they qualify for help. Some might have been turned down before, but people’s situations do change (financially and health wise), so there’s no harm in trying again; there’s nothing to lose in finding out.

A combination of spreading our important message through publicity and by the power of agencies working more effectively together, means this project hopes to make a major impact on under claiming of benefits by older people.