Key Statistics – Tackling Pensioner Poverty Fund (Aishah Help)

📌 Programme Overview

📍 Grant Awarded: £10,000

📍 Project Name: Community Connect

📍 Funding Round: 23-24 September 2023 – Strategic Grants

📍 Total Beneficiaries: 80 older individuals (60 female, 20 male)

📍 Ethnic Breakdown:

• 56 Bangladeshi

• 19 Pakistani

• 2 Indian

• 1 Black African/Caribbean

• 1 White British

📚 Key Activities Delivered

✅ 6 Support Sessions focused on:

•Navigating benefits (Pension Credit, Housing Benefits, Winter Fuel Payment).

•Completing applications (Step-by-step guidance, documentation support).

•Digital literacy for benefits access (using government portals & secure applications).

•Advocacy & follow-ups (Tracking applications, appeals, and financial planning).

🌟 Programme Outcomes

📍 Successful Applications: 55 participants received benefits, increasing annual income by £95,534.68.

📍 One-off payments & vouchers distributed: £3,940 in financial aid.

📍 Pending Applications: 13 participants awaiting approval.

📍 Unsuccessful Applications: 12 participants requiring further support.

📍 85% of participants reported reduced stress & improved mental well-being.

📍 85% felt more confident in navigating financial aid & social services.

📍 Improved physical well-being by accessing essential services & carers.

💰 Grant Allocation

📍 £8,779.35 – Staff Costs (Project Coordinator, Benefits Advisor).

📍 £750 – Operational Costs (Community venue hire).

📍 £470.65 – Publicity & Outreach (Sponsored ads, promotional material).

💬 Participant Testimonial

“I was feeling overwhelmed with bills and unsure if I could manage. After receiving help with my applications, I not only received benefits but also gained peace of mind. Now, I can pay my bills on time and no longer worry about heating in winter.”

This project empowered older individuals to access financial support, reduce financial stress, and improve quality of life, ensuring a more secure and stable future for vulnerable pensioners. 🚀