Entitlements for Older People

The Department of Work and Pensions estimates that, in February 2005, around one in five people over 60 did not claim their full entitlement.

According to Help the Aged, over £4billion in benefits was left unclaimed by older people last year alone. This is money that could not only lift older people out of hardship, but could also significantly help to keep them healthier, active and independent.

That is why as part of the Local Area Agreement the major agencies who work with older people in Leicestershire (the County Council, the seven District Councils, the Pension Service and the Voluntary sector) are now working in partnership to increase the level of benefits uptake by older people.

The 'It's Yours, Claim It' video (.wmv Windows Media Video file - approx 8 mins) illustrates through the stories of a number of older Leicestershire people how benefits can change lives and explains where to go for help.

Read the Press Release - Hundreds of older people missing out on benefits