Executive Summary

Over the past year, SWLICAN has seen a dramatic rise in pensioners accessing welfare rights services:

Attendance Allowance applications up 130%

Pension Credit applications up 50%

Benefits check-ups up 72%

Why? Because many pensioners are struggling with complex forms and don’t always know what they’re entitled to. Our Winter 2024/25 campaign across West Lancashire reached hundreds of people, helping them secure vital financial support.

With the right advice, pensioners have:

Paid fuel bills and kept homes warm

Covered transport to vital hospital appointments

Maintained social connections and outings

Improved wellbeing and reduced anxiety

But challenges remain. The cut to Winter Fuel Allowance, rising costs of food and energy, and stricter benefit rules have left many older people — especially those with disabilities or chronic health issues — in real financial insecurity.

Reports from Joseph Rowntree Foundation (2023) and the Trussell Trust (2025) continue to call for an Essentials Guarantee so that no one has to go without food, heating, or basic bills.

SWLICAN’s work proves the impact of welfare rights advice: pensioners gain access to not just benefits, but also passported support like Council Tax reduction, housing help, and free health treatments.

As the population ages, voluntary sector organisations like SWLICAN are vital in ensuring dignity, financial security, and wellbeing for pensioners across West Lancashire.

Contact us on admin@swlican.org for a full copy of the report