UK Elderly and Carers Underclaim Key DWP Benefits

Millions of older people and carers across the United Kingdom are forgoing vital financial support from the Department for Work and Pensions, with recent data highlighting significant underclaiming of benefits designed to ease daily living costs amid rising expenses. In February 2025, figures showed nearly one million eligible pensioners not receiving Pension Credit, while over 1.7 million are claiming Attendance Allowance for care needs, and a petition calls for a sharp rise in Carer's Allowance to better reflect the demands on unpaid caregivers.

Pension Credit, a means-tested benefit for those over State Pension age with low incomes, currently supports about 1.4 million recipients and could provide an average of £4,300 in extra aid during the 2025-26 financial year. Eligibility hinges on weekly income falling below £227.10 for singles or £346.60 for couples, though additional amounts are available for disabilities, caring responsibilities, or housing costs. Savings over £10,000 are considered, but even a modest award of £1 per week unlocks further perks, including free TV licences for those over 75, discounted broadband, free NHS dental care, and automatic cold weather...