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Jacqui Ward (left) discusses how WDH can help elderly people like Mary Crossley and Peter Wilson make the most of their money.
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Wakefield and District Housing (WDH) is embarking on a campaign to ensure elderly and vulnerable people claim all the benefits or credits that they are entitled to.
WDH plans to start its programme by working with residents of its independent living schemes (ILS) to offer guidance and information on money and financial matters so that they have the opportunity to maximise their income.
The aim of the new initiative is to make sure residents are given the appropriate support and advice if they have been left confused or worried about their personal finances following cuts announced in last month’s budget.
Jacqui Ward, Senior Revenues Officer for WDH, says many people don’t realise the funds they are entitled to.
“The financial support is out there – WDH’s role is to help people gain access to it,” says Jacqui. “The objective of these informal drop-in sessions is to give residents of our independent living schemes the chance to talk to us about any concerns they may have regarding their income.
“We want to take our service out into the district to the people that don’t have the ability to come to us.
“If we can help people get more income then they might not struggle so much to pay their bills and lead a more comfortable life.”
Ms Ward recently met with residents at Farfield Court ILS in South Elmsall to discuss ideas of how WDH could spread the word to all residents of ILSs.
Farfield residents Peter Wilson and Mary Crossley said they were receptive to WDH’s plans to fully optimise any potential benefits.
“Most people from my generation are sensitive when it comes to talking about their finances,” says Mr Wilson, 70. “They don’t like to talk about it so it’s all about gaining confidence and trust. There are a lot of opportunities for WDH to help elderly people work out their money situations.”
In February this year the Department for Work and Pensions reported that 1.7 million pensioners are missing out on an average of £31 in pension credit payments.
Last year WDH helped tenants to access £290,000 in grants and benefits.
