Between April and September 2026, Age UK Lancashire’s Information and Advice service identified £203,232.10 in benefits for Fylde residents of State Pension age. Of this, £46,909.18 has already been confirmed as awarded, with further decisions pending.
The service, which receives annual grant funding from Fylde Council, provides free assistance with benefit checks, claim forms, and energy support, including the Warm Home Discount. Attendance Allowance claims form a significant part of their work, and the service encourages residents not to be discouraged if an initial claim is rejected, as mandatory reconsiderations have so far resulted in positive outcomes.
One resident in Lytham St Annes, who lives alone, received support with an Attendance Allowance claim after a fall. The team visited her home, and she was awarded the higher rate of £114.60 per week, plus over £1,000 in backpay. A subsequent benefit check revealed her Pension Credit would increase from £25.17 to £115.95 weekly, making her over £200 better off each week. She was also signed up to Electricity North West’s Extra Care Register and advised on resources to help her maintain independence at home.
Councillor Chris Dixon, Lead Member for Social Wellbeing, stated: “It’s fantastic to see the real difference this service is making to older people in our community. Money worries can be a heavy weight to carry, especially as winter approaches, and nobody should miss out on support they’re entitled to. If you’re of State Pension age, or you have an older relative or neighbour, please get in touch with Age UK Lancashire. A quick conversation could make a huge difference.”
Zoe Wiggins, Information and Advice Manager at Age UK Lancashire, added: “Age UK Lancashire strives to ensure all older people across the county are living their best later lives. Sometimes a little extra cash can help achieve this. Every year, millions of pounds in Pension Credit and other benefits go unclaimed, so we’d like to encourage residents of State Pension age and above to have the entitlements checked. Our Information & Advice Service can do this for you. Our service is confidential and free of charge. Please contact our Customer Services team on 0300 3031234 for more information.”
Residents can visit Age UK Lancashire at 7 St George’s Road, St Annes, on Thursdays between 9:30am and 12:30pm, or book appointments for other times. For advice or to verify a call from the team, contact the Customer Services Team on 0300 3031234. This initiative is highlighted as a key example of the Council collaborating with local partners to support residents across Fylde.
