Latest statistics (2016/ 2017) show that the figures for unclaimed means tested welfare benefits remain extremely high. In the meantime clients continue to use foodbanks on an increasing basis.
Note that these figure should be higher as they do not include those for Job Seekers Allowance or Tax Credits. Universal Credit has the potential to result in a further fall in the take up of benefits.
6/10 of claimants entitled received the Pension Credit they were due and 8/10 of those entitled to Housing Benefit/ Income Support or Employment and Support
Allowance(income related).
We've found that people often don't claim due to- lack of knowledge of benefits,the claim process, stigma, language barriers, lack of face to face help and being putting off by past claims going wrong.
Book now for our updated Introduction to Welfare Benefits 2019 course.