Nearly 200,000 pensioners in Scotland are not claiming parts of social security that could increase their income, according to analysis by the charity Independent Age. The group estimates that the shortfall amounts to about £346 million each year. Independent Age says many eligible older people are missing out on Pension Credit and other related support.
Independent Age argues that uptake of Pension Credit remains too low and urges ministers to take steps to ensure more people apply. The Daily Record reports that the average amount lost by pensioners who are not receiving the benefits is £2,199 per year, while noting that the wider cost affects health and care services in the long term. The Glasgow Times similarly highlights the scale of non-take-up and the potential impact on pensioners.
Both outlets base their figures on Independent Age’s findings, focusing on the number of pensioners affected, the estimated total value of missed payments, and the policy call for improving Pension Credit take-up.
