Let’s Talk Money in north Antrim!

Anne O’Reilly, Age NI Chief Executive commented: “A recent report suggests that £100 million in pension credit and housing benefit alone is going unclaimed by older people in Northern Ireland every year (i). That’s a staggering amount and means that older people across Northern Ireland are missing out on much needed help at a time when living costs are rising and people are struggling to get by.

“With the support of the NIE Staff and Pensioners’ Charity Fund, Age NI has produced More Money in your Pocket, a short and simple guide to the benefits available for older people. This publication, and more information about money matters are available at www.ageni.org/letstalkmoney Hard copies of More Money in your Pocket will also be available at your local Credit Union, or by contacting Age NI on 028 9024 5729.

“There are so many reasons that prevent older people from getting the right financial support - not knowing where to start, difficulty filling in forms, and even the belief that someone else needs the help more. Age NI wants to make sure that people can access the full range of support available to them as simply as possible.

“Last year, our Advice Service dealt with almost 14,000 phone calls from older people in need and we helped identify £709,000 in unclaimed benefit. Age NI could help you or someone you know in the area to access enough additional support to make a real difference – call freephone 0808 808 7575 today for a free and confidential benefits check from our specialist advisors.”