To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any measures his Department provides to support people of state pension age who are experiencing financial hardship but are not entitled to means-tested benefits

The Department for Communities provides a range of measures to assist older people who may be experiencing financial hardship, including those who are not entitled to means-tested benefits.

These measures include the Winter Fuel Payment, free bus and rail travel through the Concessionary Fares Scheme, and support available through the Affordable Warmth Scheme and the Home Heating Oil Scheme, subject to eligibility criteria. Attendance Allowance is available for those older people who have a medical condition or disability.

In addition, Make the call will carry out a needs assessment based on your personal circumstances and look at what benefits, supports and services that may be available to older people. The Department also funds independent advice services which provide information and guidance on budgeting, debt management, benefit entitlement checks and other sources of assistance. Older people are encouraged to seek advice to ensure they are receiving all support to which they may be entitled.

The Department keeps the effectiveness of support measures under review and continues to work with stakeholders to identify opportunities to assist older people facing financial hardship.