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Worried about your Freedom Pass? 

There have been a lot of misleading reports in the media that the funding for Freedom Passes in London is under threat.

This isn't the case.

Please click here for a full explanation.

Getting the most out of retirement

I have been campaigning to ensure that pensioners in Tooting claim the entitlements that are available to them. The Labour Government is committed to ensuring that every pensioner has a decent and secure income in retirement. I have produced a leaflet 'A Guide to Financial Support for Pensioners in Balham, Earlsfield, Furzedown, Tooting and Wandsworth Common'.

Download Sadiq's Guide for Pensioners (pdf file)

UPDATE: FUEL POVERTY
Check if you are eligible for a Warm Front grant - to help install heating and insulation in your home. Call 0800 316 6014 for more information.

British Gas also have a number of fuel poverty measures, including a winter rebate for vulnerable customers. Call 0845 602 2008 for more information.

The main entitlements are outlined below:

1. Pension Credit

The Pension Credit is an entitlement for people aged 60 and over that was introduced in October 2003. It ensures that everyone aged 60 or over receives an income of at least £109.45 per week if you are single, or £167.05 per week for couples. It also makes certain that pensioners over 65 with small second pensions or modest savings will be rewarded. This could be as much as £16.44 if you are single, or £21.51 for couples. To check whether you are eligible for Pension Credit application line on freephone 0800 991234. Lines are open 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 1pm Saturday.

2. Winter Fuel Payments

The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual payment to help older people pay their heating bills. The Winter Fuel Payment is worth £200 for those aged 60 or over and will rise to £300 for those aged 80 or over. For couples, the benefit is shared within the household. For more information about Winter Fuel Payments call 08459 15 15 15. Lines are open from 8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.

3. Free Off Peak Bus Travel

Residents of Wandsworth Borough who are aged 60 or over, are entitled to a freedom pass—free travel on buses, trains, trams, the DLR and underground within the London area after 9am weekdays, all weekends and public holidays. Freedom passes for disabled and blind people are also available which allow free travel on buses and the
underground at all times. To find out more, call Wandsworth Council’s Concessionary Travel Helpline on 020 8871 7709.

4. Free TV Licences

The Government will pay for your television licence if you are aged 75 or over. For more information call the TV Licensing information
helpline on 0870 241 6468.

5. Free Prescriptions and Eye Tests

If you are 60 or over, you can get free NHS prescriptions and eye tests. If you’re also receiving Pension Credit, you may get vouchers towards the cost of your glasses or contact lenses. For more information, pick up the leaflet ‘HC11 Are you entitled to help with health costs?’ at your local post office.

6. Discount Driving Licences

If you’re aged 70 or over, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has abolished the fee for a three year driving licence and now you can renew your licence for free. The DVLA will send you a renewal form when your old licence is about to expire. For more information, call the DVLA on 0870 240 0009. The line is open from 8am to 8.30pm, Monday to Friday, and until 5.30pm on Saturdays.

7. War Disablement Pension

You may qualify if you have been injured or disabled during a time of war, or as a result of your service in in the Armed Forces. To find out more, call the War Pensions Agency Freeline on 0800 169 2277.

8. Free Passports for Veterans

In recognition of sacrifices made by World War Two veterans and civilians, every British citizen born on or before September 2nd 1929 will no longer have to pay for a UK passport. This is to honour those who served to secure our nation’s liberty and democracy. For more information, call the Passport Advice Line 0870 521 0410.

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