The increasing cost of living continues to affect us all, especially when bills go up over the winter and festive season. East Lothian Council wants to make sure that everyone in East Lothian is getting the financial support they’re entitled to.
One timely reminder is the deadline of 21 December to apply for Pension Credit if you think you are eligible. This winter, only those claiming Pension Credit will qualify for the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.
A range of advice and details of support measures, including energy advice and ensuring you’re getting all the benefits you are entitled to, have been brought together on our website, to help everyone boost their income this winter.
The information at www.eastlothian.gov.uk/boost is aimed at raising awareness of the benefits and financial support available and encouraging everyone to check what they’re entitled to and to maximise their income wherever possible.
Council Leader and Cabinet Spokesperson for Revenues and Benefits, Councillor Norman Hampshire, said: “We ran a similar campaign back in 2022 when the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic were really hitting our households, and we know many people benefited from checking their entitlement and getting help from the council and partner agencies. However, there will be many people still not claiming what they’re entitled to and not aware of the range of support and advice that’s available to them. It’s important to act now to make sure this winter is as comfortable as it can be for you and your family. It’s easy to check and make sure you’re claiming everything you’re entitled to. I would urge everyone in East Lothian to take a look at the resources available on the council website and get in touch if they need more advice or support.”
Everyone can check that they’re getting the financial support they’re entitled to. We particularly want to make sure that under-claimed benefits are claimed. These include:
- Pension Credit – claim before 21 December 2024 for Pension Age Winter Heating Payment
- Council Tax Reduction
- Child related benefits (including Best Start Grants, Free School Meals, etc)
Other information on our Boost pages includes:
- Help with Council Tax
- Help with paying your rent
- Dealing with debt
- Crisis grants
- Food resources
- Social Security Scotland benefits
- Support for children and families
- Managing energy bills and heating your home
- Health-related support
- Financial Inclusion team