A service in Northern Ireland has generated over £62million in extra benefits this year - including £21 for pensioners.
The Department for Communities' 'Make the Call' wraparound service helps people access entitlements they have not been claiming. The service works alongside partner groups such as the Housing Executive, Housing Rights, Dementia NI and Carers NI.
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons welcomed the annual Make the Call Wraparound Service results and highlighted an additional benefit uptake of £21.3million by pensioners.
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The results also showed that customers were better off by £99.36 per person on average per week, up from £90.39 on the 2022/23 figure. The overall £62.1million figure for additional benefits increased by £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 £62million 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 £14.7million 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.
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.
To 'Make the Call' you can phone 0800 232 1271, text ADVICE to 079 8440 5248, visit nidirect.gov.uk/makethecall or email [email protected]
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