Four Million Pound Income Boost for Older People in Dundee

Hundreds of older people in Dundee have received an average of £71.54 a week through a Pension Credit campaign.

To date, over £4 million has been put into the pockets of older people in the city, with an average annual increase of nearly £4,000 per household.

This year's Pension Credit Week of Action runs from 27 October to 2 November 2025, with people being encouraged to help reach older people who may be eligible for, but unaware, of the extra support available to them.

The council continues to identify and contact households who may be eligible for Pension Credit and, to reach as many people as possible, has held several well-attended drop-in sessions where residents can receive a free benefits check.

Pension Credit is a payment for those whose income is less than the amount the UK Government says someone over pension age should receive.

Entitlement to Pension Credit depends on a person’s circumstances and looks at all the income in the household as well as savings over a certain amount. Whilst savings are considered, there is no upper threshold, so having savings does not necessarily mean there would be no entitlement.

Receiving Pension Credit can make people eligible for free NHS dental treatment, free NHS glasses, and a free TV licence for over-75s, among other benefits.

Pension Credit can also help with housing costs. Eligible pensioners may qualify for a Local Council Tax Reduction to lower their council tax bill, Housing Benefit if they rent their home, or Support for Mortgage Interest if they own it.

In addition, Pension Credit unlocks access to extra energy support, such as the Warm Home Discount and Cold Weather Payments, for some older people.

The campaign is ongoing and anyone looking to get a benefits check should contact us on cas@dundeecity.gov.uk or our Older Peoples Take-up Campaign line on 01382 434474.

Depute Convener City Governance Willie Sawers said: “It’s great that so many people in Dundee have benefited from this campaign. An extra £4 million going into the pockets of older people in our city is a fantastic achievement.

“This money can really make a difference, especially as we head into winter and continue to feel the impact of the cost-of-living crisis.

“We know that billions of pounds in benefits go unclaimed each year, which is why it’s so important to run campaigns like this and to get out into communities to help people apply for the support they’re entitled to.

“I want to thank the team who have been running this campaign, the figures really speak for themselves.

“If you or anyone you know thinks you might be eligible for financial help, whether that’s Pension Credit or another benefit, please do get in touch. Our team is here to help.”