Millions of Households Overlooked for £24 Billion in Unclaimed Benefits and Support

Millions Missing Out on Benefits and Government Support, Analysis Suggests A new analysis by Policy in Practice has revealed that seven million households are missing out on £24 billion of financial help and support due to unclaimed benefits and social tariffs. The research, which covers England, Scotland, and Wales, highlights the main barriers as awareness, complexity, and stigma. According to the study, many eligible individuals are not claiming benefits such as universal credit, pension credit, or local authority assistance like free school meals and council tax support. Social tariffs from water, energy, and broadband providers also remain unclaimed by millions of households. The government has acknowledged the issue, stating that it runs public campaigns to promote benefits. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) pointed out the existence of the free Help to Claim service, which assists individuals in claiming universal credit. Andrea Paterson, a London resident, credits Radio 4's Money Box with prompting her to apply for attendance allowance on behalf of her father, Ian. Her actions helped her family cope with rising energy costs. However, Paterson notes that awareness and understanding of available benefits remain significant challenges. The Policy in Practice analysis emphasizes the need for improved awareness and simplified application processes. The company's research suggests that a more streamlined system could increase benefit take-up rates and reduce financial hardship. Critics argue that the government should do more to promote benefits and address systemic issues contributing to unclaimed support. "It's not just about awareness; it's also about making sure people know what they're eligible for," said Sarah Jones, shadow work and pensions secretary. "The government needs to take a more proactive approach to ensuring everyone knows about the help available." In response, a DWP spokesperson stated that the department is committed to supporting claimants through various initiatives, including the Help to Claim service. As the issue continues to be debated, experts stress the importance of addressing the root causes of unclaimed benefits. "We need to tackle the stigma surrounding benefit claims and make sure people know how to access support," said Dr. Max Rutherford, a social policy expert at the University of York. The current situation highlights the ongoing challenge of ensuring that eligible individuals receive the financial assistance they are entitled to. As policymakers consider solutions, it remains clear that addressing awareness, complexity, and stigma will be crucial in reducing the number of households missing out on benefits and government support. *Reporting by Bbc.*