AROUND 3,400 of Newport's poorest pensioners - and thousands of other across Gwent - may be living in unnecessary poverty, claims older people’s charity Independent Age.
The claim is based on the percentage of UK pensioners - more than a third - who are not claiming Pension Credit, a benefit intended to top-up the pensions of the poorest to at least £145.40 a week.
The charity has launched a free Wise Guide book to advise pensioners on what they are entitled to claim.
“With rising prices a huge source of anxiety to many pensioners, Pension Credit really can make all the difference to those in later life," said Victoria Richards, head of advice and support at Independent Age.
" In some cases, it can also passport pensioners to other benefits such as council tax and housing benefit. And when claimed with Attendance Allowance, it can almost double some people’s incomes. But it does have to be claimed."
Wise Guides are available free, and can be ordered over the phone on 0845 262 1863 and online at www.independentage.org/advice/order-your-wise-guides/
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