Millar flags further support for low-income pensioners
Jersey pensioners are receiving a 4.7% increase to their old age pension as a top-up took effect on October 1, the Government of Jersey said. The increase, an additional £14 per week for someone on a full pension, brings the overall annual pension sum to £16,294.
The pension is updated every October by at least the recorded increase in the pensioner retail price index for June. BBC News reported the change, citing the Government of Jersey.
Minister for Social Security Senator Elaine Millar said further support, including cold weather payments and free TV licences, would be available for those on low incomes.
“Our pensioners have contributed to Jersey throughout their working lives and it is important that the old age pension continues to provide a strong foundation for old age,” Millar said.
“We also recognise that pensioners on lower incomes can face particular pressure from healthcare and heating costs, which is why additional support is available through Pension Plus, the Health Access Scheme and the Cold Weather Bonus.”
Millar said she encouraged anyone who believed they could be eligible for extra help to “check what support is available to them.”
The social security minister said last month it was a priority for her to introduce mandatory workplace pensions alongside the government pension.
The 4.7 percent pension uprating follows its inclusion in the Government of Jersey’s 2027-2030 budget, published on September 29, in which Treasury Minister Alan Maclean pointed to the pension uprating as part of a broader package of cost-of-living measures targeted at families and lower-income households. MSI previously reported that Jersey’s government released its 2027-2030 budget with new family cost-of-living measures.