Working together in Northamptonshire
Published on 07 October 2024 01:27 PM
Local MPs are encouraging older people to claim Pension Credit
We are supporting the efforts of Northamptonshire MPs to ensure that older people affected by the changes to the Winter Fuel Payment check their entitlement to Pension Credit. Local residents who are worried about being able to heat their homes this winter can claim online or use the Department of Work and Pensions Pension Credit claim line 0800 99 1234.
We were delighted to welcome South Northamptonshire MP Sarah Bool [above left] to visit The William and Patricia Venton Centre on Friday 20th September to find out more about the services we provide in her constituency, including Spring which is for people aged 18 and over who have at least one long-term health condition. We also discussed how to reach the many older people in poor health who do not realise they could be entitled to Attendance Allowance and other benefits.
On Thursday 3rd October Age UK Northamptonshire joined representatives from Citizens Advice, Anglia Water and Community Law at a drop-in advice session organised by Wellingborough MP Gen Kitchen [above right] at the Swansgate shopping centre. Natalie from our Collaborative Care team [above left] and Sue from Hospital Discharge & Community Team based in Irthlingborough were able to give advice on a range of topics, as well as sign people up for a free Home Energy Check and the National Grid Priority Services Register.
We were very happy to give Northampton North MP Lucy Rigby a guided tour of The William and Patricia Venton Centre on Friday 30th August. Information & Advice Team Leader Lorraine discussed how Age UK Northamptonshire can support the advice sessions Lucy has planned in her constituency for older people who are worried about losing the Winter Fuel Payment. Lorraine is pictured above [left] with Councillor Winston Strachan and Lucy Rigby MP at the first of three sessions which was held at The Pioneer in Fulford Drive. Age UK Northamptonshire was able to carry out benefits checks and advised several local residents to make a claim. If, for example, you have previously been turned down for Pension Credit but have subsequently been awarded Attendance Allowance, it is always worth re-applying.
Lucy Rigby MP has organised two further advice sessions for her constituents:
- Friday 1st November, 1-3pm at Boothville Community Centre, Booth Lane North, Northampton NN3 6JE
- Friday 6th December, 10am to 12 noon - venue to be confirmed