Older people report that benefits system makes them ‘give up’
Thousands of pensioners are missing out on billions of pounds in DWP support due to a complex and difficult benefits system, according to a report by Independent Age. Housing Benefit, which can cover up to 100% of rent for pensioners, has a relatively high uptake rate of 83%, but 270,000 households still miss out on £1.1 billion annually. The DWP has made efforts to improve access, with 120,000 more pensioners receiving benefits since July, and plans to jointly administer Housing Benefit and Pension Credit "as soon as possible." However, the report highlights the need for further action to simplify the system and ensure pensioners can access the support they need.
