| news release 22 October 2024 County Council calls for people eligible to sign up for pension credit Further steps will be taken to encourage people eligible for pension credit to come forward, following a West Sussex County Council debate. Councillors agreed that efforts should be made to alert those eligible for Pension Credit, including highlighting the advice and support available at West Sussex libraries and the council’s Community Hub. It’s hoped the move following the meeting of the Full Council at County Hall Chichester, on Friday 18 October, will help those most in need access Winter Fuel Payments. Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, Duncan Crow, said: “Using information from the Department for Work and Pensions on the take-up rate of Pension Credit, we estimate there could be up to a further 6,500 pensioners in West Sussex who may be eligible for Pension Credit, and therefore may also be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment.” “I would also urge anyone who thinks they might be eligible to use the support on offer via our libraries and Community Hub so they can access the benefits available.” Libraries in West Sussex offer free access to computers or Wi-Fi. Digital volunteers can provide free one-to-one support by appointment. Contact the Library Digital Support service on 0330 222 3455, email library.digital.support@westsussex.gov.uk, or visit a library to enquire. Libraries also provide information from trusted and reliable local and national organisations. Some libraries host regular Citizens Advice sessions as well as occasional drop-ins from key local partners. The county council’s Community Hub offers information, advice, and guidance to those experiencing financial hardship. Residents can visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/CommunityHub or phone 033 022 27980. It was agreed at the meeting that Leader of the County Council, Paul Marshall, would sign a petition being run by Age UK, on behalf of the council, calling for the government to reverse its decision to limit winter fuel payments to people receiving pension credit. Cllr Paul Marshall, the leader of West Sussex Council, said: “Following the motion at full council, WSCC will be writing to the government to urge them to rethink this policy. Our concern is that whilst we will support those affected by this change it could impact on others who rely on our help through the household support fund.” Councillors also agreed that Paul Marshall should write to the Chancellor of the Exchequer on behalf of the council, to seek an urgent review of the decision and to ask the government to ensure that vulnerable pensioners, particularly those who do not claim pension credit, are protected from fuel poverty. Ends For further information please contact the news desk on 0330 222 8090 or email pressoffice@westsussex.gov.uk.
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