A message from Cllr Donna Higgins on 14th October 2025.

Our aim is for a thriving West Suffolk for all of our residents.

We know that there are households both in West Suffolk and nationally who are simply surviving. They include residents who for whatever reason, haven’t come forward for the support they can access. It could be pride; it could be that they simply don’t realise that they could ask for support.

That is why West Suffolk Council has set up a Financial Inclusion Service so that, using data, we can target households who we believe may be eligible for support. That will include people who are retired, working and others who are looking to return to work. We can then help them check they are receiving support and to reduce their outgoings such as utility bills wherever possible.

Pension credits

Initially we are targeting households in West Suffolk who we believe may not be claiming their full Pension Credits. The Government estimates that nationally in 2023 £1.5 billion in pension credits went unclaimed. If they successfully apply, they may also be eligible for further help to boost their income.

We are writing to households we have identified.  We are also offering 1-1 support over a phone call. Alongside this, we will also be attending community groups, events and activities to promote the support that is available to residents. We have attached a leaflet that can be used to help promote the service locally.

Letters will shortly be arriving at the households in West Suffolk that we have identified as likely to be eligible for unclaimed pension credits. Households that haven’t received a letter can still enquire about Pension Credits at www.westsuffolk.gov.uk/cost-of-living or by phoning West Suffolk Council’s Financial Inclusion Service on 01284 757660.