OLDER PEOPLE across Wales are getting vital support to increase their incomes and claim benefits they are entitled to, thanks to Welsh Government-funded advice services.
Reaching People Who Might Otherwise Miss Out
The support helps older people navigate benefits, manage bills, and access essential services. Through one-to-one sessions, community drop-ins, home visits, pop-up events, and Digi Cafés, advice services reach people who might otherwise miss out.
Yesterday, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Jane Hutt, and Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Rhian Bowen-Davies, visited Cynon Linc, a community hub run by Age Connects Morgannwg. The hub provides tailored advice on claiming benefits, boosting income, and avoiding scams.
Real Impact on Local Lives
Through home visits, pop-up sessions, and Digi Cafés, Age Connects Morgannwg has helped nearly 1,900 older people in Cwm Taf Morgannwg claim over £1.6 million in additional income they were entitled to but had not received. The charity has been awarded £321,000 over three years from the Welsh Government’s Single Advice Fund to continue this work.
Volunteer Ceriann August, who cared for her mother with dementia, described the difference the hub made:
“They gave us advice on claiming my dad’s Pension Credit and Carer’s Allowance. The staff here are like family – they’ve been amazing.”
Daisy Cole, Chief Executive of Age Connects Morgannwg, said:
“Too many older people miss out on money they’re entitled to. The Single Advice Fund allows us to meet people where they are and help them claim with dignity. For older people, this is about peace of mind – not having to choose between heating or eating.”
Building an Age-Friendly Wales
Rhian Bowen-Davies added:
“Community hubs like Cynon Linc provide crucial local services, helping older people live and age well. Investment in these services is key to making Wales an Age-Friendly nation.”
The £36 million Single Advice Fund, running from April 2025 to March 2028, supports advice services across Wales. Since 2020, it has helped people secure over £290 million in additional income. Jane Hutt said:
“I’m proud that the Welsh Government is supporting services like this, ensuring older people across Wales claim the entitlements they deserve and get the support they need.”
With hubs, home visits, and pop-up sessions, older people across Wales are finally getting the support and income they deserve, improving both their finances and peace of mind.
