Iceland confirms boost for state pensioners aged over 66

Iceland has launched a new benefits checking service aimed at helping older shoppers unlock any unclaimed benefits they might be owed. Through the free telephone service which is called Benefits Boost Iceland, loyalty scheme members aged 66 and above will be able to access free benefits checks as well as hands-on application support via a new dedicated telephone hotline.

Iceland aims to support an initial 7,500 of its customers to unlock an estimated combined £37m in currently unclaimed benefits for which they might be eligible. The support is specifically tailored to older customers entitled to state pension credit, which has a qualifying age of 66.

"At Iceland we see every day how hard household budgets are being squeezed, particularly for older customers on fixed incomes," said Iceland executive chairman Richard Walker. "It has been great to partner with the Rothesay Foundation on this campaign given its commitment to empowering older people in need, with its funding helping thousands of people access vital financial support," Walker added.

The Rothesay Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life for older people in need. "We've committed £1.8m to this important partnership with Iceland to help as many pensioners as possible claim the crucial state benefits that they are entitled to," said Tallulah Woods, campaigns manager at the Rothesay Foundation. "Too many older people are missing out on financial support that could help them live more securely and independently because they're struggling to navigate the application process. This partnership is designed to make it easier for people to understand what they may be entitled to and get help claiming it," Woods added.