Millions Of Pounds In Additional Benefits Claimed

A Department for Communities service has helped people in Northern Ireland claim an additional £62 million in benefits in 2023/24.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons welcomed the annual results of the Make the Call Wraparound Service, highlighting an additional benefit uptake of £21.3 million by pensioners.

The figures also showed that on average, people were better off by £99.36 per week, an increase from £90.39 in 2022/23.

The overall £62.1 million figure for additional benefits represents an increase of £7.2 million from the previous year.

Minister Lyons said: "At a time when cost-of-living issues continue to affect some of the most vulnerable people in our society, I am delighted to announce over £62 million worth of additional financial support for those who have 'made the call' and who are now, on average, almost £100 a week better off.

"I am particularly pleased to see additional benefits of over £6.6 million in Pension Credit and £14.7 million in Attendance Allowance to those of pension age. "Pension Credit, in particular, can provide access to a range of other supports and benefits which can be a lifeline for our older generations.

"I would encourage anyone who thinks they may have a benefit entitlement to avail of this free and confidential service. I want to ensure that all available support and entitlements go directly to those who most need them."

Since 2005, almost £471 million in additional annual benefits has been generated for people across Northern Ireland, many of whom are vulnerable through age, disability, illness, or adverse circumstances.

The Make the Call Wraparound Service works in conjunction with a range of partner organisations such as the Housing Executive, Housing Rights, Dementia NI and Carers NI.

As well as supporting people in accessing benefits, the Make the Call service can direct people to additional supports including: blue badges for car parking or free bus passes; access to local groups to help maintain community connections and social independence; help with health costs; home safety checks; and assistance with reducing energy costs.