Support for Kent Pensioners Missing Out on Pension Credits

The Pensioner Just Missing Out scheme is now available to support pension-aged Kent residents struggling with rising living costs. This initiative is designed for those on lower incomes who do not qualify for Pension Credit or the government’s Winter Fuel Payment.

Funded by the Department for Work and Pensions, the scheme provides eligible households with £200 in vouchers, redeemable for food or energy costs. It’s a practical and immediate way to help those who need it most.

“This is more effective than writing to government – information for pensioners who miss out on pension credits still have some help available,” emphasises the Tonbridge and Malling Green Party.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this scheme, you must:

• Be 66 or older (or have a partner who is).
• Be a permanent Kent resident (excluding Medway, Bexley, and Bromley).
• Have an annual household income between £11,343.80 and £40,000 (£17,313.40 for joint income).
• Have savings of less than £1,000.
• Not be receiving Pension Credit.

What’s Offered

Eligible applicants will receive £200 in vouchers for food, energy, or both. Energy vouchers require an email address and online access for activation, while food vouchers can be issued via email or post without online activation.

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted online. Successful applicants will receive a confirmation email followed by vouchers within 20 working days. If you encounter issues during the process or require further assistance, call 03000 41 24 24 (Mon-Fri, 10am-3pm) or email kcc-hsffoodandenergysupport@kent.gov.uk (Opens in your email.

For those assisting multiple applicants, professionals can streamline the process by contacting the council for bulk application templates.

Appeal Process

If your application is declined, you can appeal the decision within seven days by emailing kcc-hsffoodandenergysupport@kent.gov.uk. Provide as much detail as possible about why the decision should be reconsidered.

Other Available Support

The council is also preparing to launch a Winter Food and Energy Support Scheme in early 2025 to assist low-income households. In the meantime, their Cost of Living Support Hub provides resources to help with benefit eligibility, energy savings, and accessing essential services like food and childcare.

Get Help Today

This scheme is a lifeline for pensioners who fall through the gaps of other support systems. If you or someone you know qualifies, apply now to receive much-needed assistance.

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