Older people across North Wales are being urged to make sure they are receiving all the financial support they are entitled to, as the Welsh Government encourages more pensioners to seek advice and maximise their income.

The appeal comes amid continued pressure on household budgets, with ministers warning that many older people could be missing out on benefits and other financial assistance simply because they are unaware of what is available or find the system too difficult to navigate.

The Welsh Government says face-to-face advice remains particularly important for older people who may not be confident using online services and is encouraging anyone who thinks they could qualify for extra support to seek help.

Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Sioned Williams highlighted the importance of local advice services after visiting Age Connects Morgannwg, where she met staff helping older people access financial support.

She said the Welsh Government is working towards a welfare system that is simpler, fairer and easier to navigate.

“We are working towards a Welsh Welfare System that is simpler, fairer and easier to navigate, making it as straightforward as possible for people to access the financial support they are entitled to,” she said.

“Services like Age Connects Morgannwg play a vital role in helping people understand what support is available and giving them the confidence to claim what they’re entitled to, so fewer older people miss out on financial support that could make a real difference to their lives.”

Across North Wales, older people can access free, confidential welfare advice through local organisations including Age Cymru, Citizens Advice and Advicelink Cymru, which helps people check their eligibility for benefits and supports them through the claims process.

The Welsh Government is also reviewing existing Welsh benefits and support schemes in a bid to improve take-up and ensure more people receive the help they are entitled to.

Anyone who believes they, or someone they know, could be missing out on financial support is encouraged to seek advice.

Advicelink Cymru’s “Claim What’s Yours” service offers free, confidential guidance and can be contacted on 0800 702 2020.