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<p>There are currently some 3,040 recipients of Pension Credit in East Yorkshire.</p><p>
</p><p>We have already undertaken a range of actions to raise awareness of Pension
Credit and increase take-up. Initial internal management information suggests that
new claims for Pension Credit in the 12 months to December 2021 were around 30% higher
compared to the 12 months to December 2019.</p><p> </p><p>Earlier this year, we directly
targeted over 11 million pensioners with information about Pension Credit and the
additional support it can provide in the leaflet accompanying their annual up-rating
notification.</p><p> </p><p>However, it is more important now than ever before that
we ensure all eligible pensioners claim the vital financial help which Pension Credit
provides. That’s why on 3 April we launched a new Pension Credit awareness campaign. We
are promoting Pension Credit in a variety of ways, including on social media – with
advertising targeted both at potential recipients as well as their friends and family
and also in key locations for the elderly, such as post offices and GP waiting rooms.</p><p>
</p><p>I have written to the editors of regional newspapers across England, Scotland
and Wales calling on readers to check if they could be eligible and make a claim.
This was done on repeat occasions in 2021. I have also written to all MPs, urging
them to lend the campaign their support. MPs are well placed to promote Pension Credit to
their older constituents and many already do so.</p><p> </p><p>On 6 June there will
be a further roundtable meeting with some stakeholders, who have reach and expertise,
to identify other practical initiatives to encourage eligible pensioners to claim.</p><p>
</p><p>On 15 June, there will be another Pension Credit awareness media day of action
with broadcasters, newspapers and other partners encouraged to reach out to pensioners
to promote Pension Credit through their channels. We will also extend the campaign
to include advertising in regional and national newspapers. This event was a success
in 2021.</p><p> </p><p>We know that one of the best ways to reach eligible customers
is through trusted stakeholders working in the community. We will be producing and
distributing leaflets and posters which can be used across local communities, and
we will also be updating our digital toolkit with information and resources that any
stakeholder can use to help promote Pension Credit.</p><p><strong> </strong></p><p>
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