A new trial to boost Pension Credit take up is underway after analysis showed significant regional disparities in pensioners claiming the benefit, which can be worth over £100 a week.

An analysis published on Thursday found that between 60% and 70% of potentially eligible pensioners in the North and London are claiming Pension Credit. In the East and South, the figure drops to around the mid-50% mark. Take up rates are highest in the North East at 71% compared to just 55% in the South West. Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell said: “We’re committed to supporting harder-up pensioners however we can. Pension Credit is a simple way to give those who need it the most some extra support with bills or a free TV licence. I’d urge anyone who thinks they, or anyone they know, might be able to claim Pension Credit, to take a few minutes out of their day to check and apply. This country’s pensioners deserve every penny they are entitled to”

The research, which was published by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) marks the first time an analysis has been undertaken on the demographics of eligible pensioners not applying for Pension Credit, including at a local level.

It comes as the annual national figure showing how many eligible pensioners were not claiming the benefit increased from the previous year’s figure of up to 760,000 households.

The new trial – in partnership with Age UK and Independent Age – will see letters sent to 2,000 pensioners across England urging them to claim Pension Credit, worth on average of around £4,300 a year.

These pensioners have been identified through the analysis as being the most likely to be eligible for Pension Credit but not currently claiming it.

The drive forms part of the Government’s wider plan for “national renewal”, which aims to ensure everyone across the country is seen, valued and treated with respect.

Morgan Vine, director of policy and influencing at Independent Age, said: “We’re pleased to support this proactive UK Government trial to increase the reach of Pension Credit. If you’re in financial hardship, where you live shouldn’t be a factor in whether or not you receive the money you’re entitled to, but at the moment it is.

“With the continued high cost of living, the older people that we speak to cannot afford to miss out on any of the money they are eligible for.

“Initiatives like this trial are a positive step towards increasing the number of people receiving the financial support they are entitled to, and we urge the UK Government to continue building on this strategic approach.”

The new trial marks a shift in how the Department identifies and contacts potentially eligible pensioners who are not claiming Pension Credit. Previously, letters targeted pensioners receiving Housing Benefit. If successful, the DWP says further trials could take place.

As well as providing vital support through an average of £83 a week (£114.99 on average for a couple), Pension Credit unlocks a variety of additional support for pensioners. This can include help with housing costs, council tax, heating bills and free TV licences for those aged over 75.

This comes during the Department’s Pension Credit Week of Action aimed at raising awareness of the benefits of Pension Credit and encouraging everyone eligible to apply.

For more information on Pension Credit, eligibility and how to claim the benefit, visit Pension Credit: How to claim – GOV.UK or call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.

Regional breakdown of Pension Credit uptake within the analysis

• England – 63%
• Wales – 64%
• Scotland – 67%
• North East – 71%
• North West – 67%
• Yorkshire and The Humber – 64%
• East Midlands – 61%
• West Midlands – 65%
• East of England – 58%
• London – 69%
• South East – 56%
• South West – 55%.

Who is eligible for Pension Credit?

The benefit aims to top up low-income pensioners’ state pension to give them a more reasonable standard of living.

To claim, a person must live in England, Scotland or Wales and have reached the state pension age (currently 66 and over). They or their partner must also be receiving housing benefit.

If this applies, the person must then work out their total weekly income. This should include the state pension, other pensions, earnings from employment and self-employment, and most social security benefits, such as Carer’s Allowance.

Not all benefits are counted as income. For example, the following are not counted and shouldn’t be included in the calculation:

• Adult Disability Payment
• Attendance Allowance
• Christmas Bonus
• Child Benefit
• Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• Social fund payments, such as the Winter Fuel Allowance
• Housing Benefit
• Council Tax Reduction.

Peopel can check the Government Pension Credit calculator to find out if their income could qualify them for the benefit.