The Labour Government is committed to ensuring that every pensioner has a decent and secure income in retirement. I have listed below entitlements and benefits that pensioners in
Brent South may benefit from.
Update
Check if you are eligible for a Warm Front grant - to help install heating and insulation in your home. Call 0800 316 6014 for more information.
British Gas also have a number of fuel poverty measures, including a winter rebate for vulnerable customers. Call 0845 602 2008 for more information.
The main entitlements are outlined below:
1. Pension Credit
The Pension Credit is an entitlement for people aged 60 and over that was introduced in October 2003. It ensures that everyone aged 60 or over receives an income of at least £109.45 per
week if you are single, or £167.05 per week for couples. It also makes certain that pensioners over 65 with small second pensions or modest savings will be rewarded. This could be as much
as £16.44 if you are single, or £21.51 for couples. To check whether you are eligible for Pension Credit application line on freephone 0800 991234. Lines are open 8am to 8pm Monday to
Friday, 9am to 1pm Saturday.
2. Winter Fuel Payments
The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual payment to help older people pay their heating bills. The Winter Fuel Payment is worth £200 for those aged 60 or over and will rise to £300 for those
aged 80 or over. For couples, the benefit is shared within the household. For more information about Winter Fuel Payments call 08459 15 15 15. Lines are open from 8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday
to Friday.
3. Free Off Peak Bus Travel
Residents of Brent Borough who are aged 60 or over, are entitled to a freedom pass—free travel on buses, trains, trams, the DLR and underground within the London area after 9am weekdays,
all weekends and public holidays. Freedom passes for disabled and blind people are also available which allow free travel on buses and the underground at all times. To apply for a Freedom
pass, visit your local post office and ask for an application form.
4. Free TV Licences
The Government will pay for your television licence if you are aged 75 or over. For more information call the TV Licensing information helpline on 0870 241 6468.
5. Free Prescriptions and Eye Tests
If you are 60 or over, you can get free NHS prescriptions and eye tests. If you’re also receiving Pension Credit, you may get vouchers towards the cost of your glasses or contact lenses.
For more information, pick up the leaflet ‘HC11 Are you entitled to help with health costs?’ at your local post office.
6. Discount Driving Licences
If you’re aged 70 or over, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has abolished the fee for a three year driving licence and now you can renew your licence for free. The DVLA will
send you a renewal form when your old licence is about to expire. For more information, call the DVLA on 0870 240 0009. The line is open from 8am to 8.30pm, Monday to Friday, and until
5.30pm on Saturdays.
7. War Disablement Pension
You may qualify if you have been injured or disabled during a time of war, or as a result of your service in in the Armed Forces. To find out more, call the War Pensions Agency Freeline
on 0800 169 2277.
8. Free Passports for Veterans
In recognition of sacrifices made by World War Two veterans and civilians, every British citizen born on or before September 2nd 1929 will no longer have to pay for a UK passport. This is
to honour those who served to secure our nation’s liberty and democracy. For more information, call the Passport Advice Line 0870 521 0410.
