People urged to claim financial support due to them

A Member of the Senedd and an MP are teaming up to urge their constituents to claim the financial support they’re entitled to. 

Ken Skates MS and Member of Parliament Steve Witherden say an estimated £2bn goes unclaimed benefits in Wales, and a renewed effort is under way to make sure people get the help they qualify for and maximise their household incomes.

The MS and MP spoke publicly after recently learning of a couple in Ruabon who believe they have missed out on more than 20 years of Pension Credit payments. 

A £36m investment from the Welsh Government announced last week will ensure free, confidential advice is available to guide people through the claims process through the Single Advice Fund. 

“This new funding is backed by the Welsh Government’s ongoing Claim What’s Yours national benefit take-up campaign,” said Mr Skates, MS for Clwyd South. 

“Whether it’s applying for Personal Independence Payments, Carer’s Allowance or Pension Credit, help is available through the Advicelink Cymru helpline for anyone needing assistance with their financial entitlements.” 

Mr Witherden, MP for Montgomeryshire & Glyndŵr, said: “I welcome the Welsh Government’s continued efforts to promote benefits take-up across Wales, and would really encourage all my constituents who think they might be eligible for any kind of support to take advantage of the Single Advice Fund."

Since its launch in 2020, the Single Advice Fund service has helped people across Wales secure £160m in additional income and wipe out £43.6m in debts. Last year alone, the Claim What’s Yours helpline, which is funded by the Welsh Government and run by local Citizens Advice services, helped 36,800 people resolve over 120,000 financial, housing and employment issues.

The Welsh Government is also working with local authorities and other partners to make grants and other payments such as free school meals, the School Essentials Grant and the Council Tax Reduction Scheme as simple to claim as possible.

As part of the work to streamline Welsh Benefits, a new £550,000 pilot project with data analytics company Policy in Practice is working with 11 local authorities – including Wrexham, Denbighshire and Powys – to identify and reach out to people who may not realise they’re eligible for support. 

Mr Skates said: "Ensuring people get the benefits they’re eligible for can make a real difference, especially during the incredibly tough times many in Clwyd South are experiencing at the moment. By making it simpler for people, I hope we will be able to improve their financial outlook.

“Whether you’re struggling with daily expenses, managing debt or unsure about what help is available, there is support for you.”

Advicelink Cymru Claim What’s Yours advisors are ready to help you check your eligibility for extra income and guide you through the claiming process. For free advice, call 0800 702 2020.