Comment on the latest benefit take-up figures

11 June 2010

Commenting on the latest benefit take-up figures, published today, Michelle Mitchell, Charity Director at Age UK, said:

"It is a huge concern that despite 1.8 million pensioners living in poverty, benefit take-up remains unchanged with up to £5.4 billion in benefits cash still going unclaimed by older people every year.

"The coalition government must move quickly towards paying these vital benefits automatically so the poorest and most vulnerable older people receive all the financial help they're entitled to. Clearly there are huge challenges ahead for the new government but now is the time to renew the fight against pensioner poverty and commit to eradicating it once and for all."