The recent cold spell has highlighted the struggles many older people face with the cost of living. Age UK, a leading charity for older people, is reminding those on low and modest incomes to check their finances and make sure they are receiving all the financial help they're entitled to.
As part of their Crisis Hiding in Plain Sight campaign, Age UK is urging older people to check if they could claim Pension Credit, a vital pensioner benefit that tops up weekly income and opens the doors to extra financial support. According to the latest available statistics, nearly 2 in 5 of those eligible to claim Pension Credit are missing out on average £50 per week or £2600 per year.
Caroline Abrahams CBE, Charity Director at Age UK, said: 'During this cold snap, it's vital for older people to stay warm and well in their homes. Increases in energy, food, and rent have significantly impacted people's standard of living, and we're still hearing harrowing stories about older people who are taking drastic measures to get by.'
In 2025, Age UK's national Advice Line helped 6,006 older people with benefit checks and applying for benefits, identifying more than £36m of support. Successfully claiming Pension Credit can be transformational for any older person whose low fixed income is failing to keep pace with the cost of living.
Age UK urges every pensioner to do three things: check their eligibility for Pension Credit and other pensioner benefits, apply early (up to 4 months before reaching State Pension age), and encourage others to check too, especially those on low incomes or struggling with energy and food costs.