Redbridge Council announces support for pensioners on low-income benefits
Published: 1 October 2022
The cost of living crisis is impacting local people across Redbridge, and so, as part of a package to support those most impacted by rising bills, Redbridge Council is providing Pensioner Packs to all pensioners on low-income benefits this September to ensure they are able to heat their homes.
As temperatures begin to fall and bills rise, there is a concern that pensioners on low-income benefits may feel unable to turn on their heating. Not heating homes can be dangerous, so the Redbridge Council Pensioner Pack has been created to help pensioners on low-income benefits stay safe and warm this winter.
The pack includes:
• A cash voucher redeemable at the Post Office, to be used towards keeping warm through winter
• A thermometer to monitor the temperature at home to make sure it is safe
• Guidance on where to get advice on household finances, energy saving, energy bills, benefits and debt
Cllr Jas Athwal, Leader of Redbridge Council, said, “No one should have to suffer being cold and hungry this winter. That’s why, with the cost of living soaring and minimal government assistance available, our council is stepping up all possible support to help local people most at risk during this tough time.
“Over the last six months, we have delivered nearly £1.9m in emergency support, targeted towards those most in need in Redbridge, in addition to lobbying government to take action on energy bills. As we head into winter, we are continuing to work closely with food banks and our local voluntary organisations to help our neighbours across Redbridge as we face this challenging period.”
Many people in the borough are not accessing the benefits they are entitled to, including pensioners. You may be entitled to additional support. To find out more, use the benefits calculator
In addition, to support for pensioners on low-income benefits, Redbridge Council is developing a network of warm places for local people to visit during the day. More information will be published shortly. In the meantime, don’t forget that Redbridge libraries are open with a range of activities, including family history research services and the Repair Café - and of course, books and newspapers to browse.
Useful contacts:
Age UK Redbridge
Citizens Advice Redbridge
Money Saving Expert Benefit Check
Money and Pensions Service
Redbridge Council Benefits Service
