The Council has been writing to a number of Coventry residents who may be on a low income and are eligible for Pension Credit, free school meals and other benefits
It’s part of a wider effort to help people who are facing the most financial difficulties to look at how they can be urgently supported.
The Council has recently updated its web pages too, listing help what is available to support people in the city with the cost of living and fuel bills over winter.
By targeting households, families and older people who are struggling with rent arears, debt issues, or who could be eligible for receipt of free school meals or support with council tax payments - it is hoped to help individuals and families to increase their income.
Pensions Credit
We are aware that there are older people who may not be receiving the full the Pension Credit support they are entitled to, and since September 2022 we have assessed dozens of households for Pension Credit eligibility and those, we believe are eligible, have been contacted by phone and/or letter and offered support with applying.
We want to help more people with advice on how to make an application.
The process to apply for Pension Credit is straightforward and you can apply by any of the following methods:
• Phone the Governments Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234
• Or by Textphone on 0800 169 0133.
You can ask a friend or family member to help you make the call if you wish.
Successful applicants can receive up to £65 a week through the government scheme.
To help signpost people to more help in general check our website at coventry.gov.uk/costofliving
Act on Energy Coventry also run a wide-ranging programme of support.
Whether you’re looking for free, one-to-one energy advice - because you’re struggling with high energy bills or debt - or you just want to improve your energy efficiency, our experts are here to help.
For details visit actonenergy.org.uk/area/coventry or call 0800 988 2881.