Guidelines for submitting articles to Mazarron Murcia
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Mazarron Murcia is a website set up by Murcia Today specifically for residents of the urbanisation in Southwest Murcia, providing news and information on what’s happening in the local area, which is the largest English-speaking expat area in the Region of Murcia.
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Date Published: 05/07/2024
Reminder to retired Brits in Spain: Letter from British Ambassador requires IMMEDIATE action
Retired Brits over 80 living in Spain and receiving a UK State pension need to take action by July 31 to avoid “suspension of pension payments”
The British Embassy in Madrid has issued an announcement from the office of British Ambassador, Hugh Elliott, urging all British people living in Spain who are aged over 80 and receiving a UK state pension to complete ‘life certificates’ for the British Government’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to avoid “the suspension of pension payments by DWP”.
For pensioners under-80, there is no action currently required but they will be receiving a letter towards the end of the year.
Due to a lower-than-expected response to letters being sent out on January 7, 2024, the deadline has been extended to July 31, 2024 and the announcement has circulated to citizens rights groups and charities in Spain, primarily those supporting and with links to the elderly British population.
There has been some suspicion voiced on social media that the letter and announcement were a scam, but the British Embassy has confirmed that the process is indeed genuine.
If you are a state pensioner over 80 and you haven’t received the form, please check your postal boxes or at the ‘Correos’ Spanish post office.
If you have not received it, click on this link to the “online inquiry form” or call +44 (0) 191 218 7777 as the DWP will need to send out a personally addressed letter and form to you. Information can also be found on the UK governments International Pension Centre link.
The announcement is as follows:
Madrid, 1 July 2024
I am writing to you to ask for your help in spreading an important message to British people living in Spain who are aged over 80 and receiving a UK state pension.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) sent out a letter on 7 January 2024 to check that over-80s of any nationality who are drawing a state pension in Spain are still eligible. They are called ‘life certificates’ and they require the recipient to complete a form and have a witness sign it before returning it in the post. Full instructions are provided in the letter. This is a routine process, with certificates sent by DWP on a regular cycle to specific groups drawing a UK state pension.
To date, the number of life certificates returned to the DWP from Spain is lower than expected. The DWP have therefore extended the deadline to 31 July 2024 to give over-80s more time to complete the process.
It’s really important that all British state pensioners over the age of 80 complete this process as soon as possible. Failure to do so could lead to the suspension of pension payments by DWP (although these can be reinstated at any point if eligibility is subsequently proven). We would be extremely grateful for your help in spreading this message to your contacts and members and if possible, supporting them to complete and return the life certificate.
If any state pensioners over-80 have not received a letter or has changed their address without notifying DWP, they can request a new one here: https://www.qov.uk/international-pensioncentre.
As for state pensioners under-80, there is no action currently required but they will be receiving a letter towards the end of the year. We therefore recommend that all state pensioners check their address registered with DWP is correct if they have recently moved house. They can do so here: https://www.gov.uk/international-pension-centre.
Address
Age Concern Social Centre, 2B Avenida de los Covachos, Camposol Sector CTel: Telephone Enquiries: 634 344 589
Mobile: Events: 623 118 062 (10am - 4pm Monday to Friday)
Mobile: Events: 623 118 062 (10am - 4pm Monday to Friday)
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Age Concern Costa Cálida: Making a difference in our community
At Age Concern Costa Calida, we are dedicated to enhancing the lives of seniors in our community. Our comprehensive range of services ensures that our over 50’s residents receive the support and companionship they need to lead fulfilling lives.
One of our key services is assistance with transportation to and from medical & hospital appointments. We understand the importance of regular medical visits, and our reliable volunteers are committed to providing safe and comfortable transportation, ensuring that no one misses a crucial appointment.
We also offer assistance with local shopping. Whether it’s a weekly grocery run or picking up prescriptions, our volunteers are here to help, ensuring you have everything you need without the stress of shopping alone.
Loneliness is a significant issue, and our befriending service is designed to combat this. Our friendly volunteers provide regular companionship, bringing joy and social interaction to those who may otherwise feel isolated.
Our fundraising events are not only a vital source of support for our activities but also fantastic social occasions. Check out our Facebook page “Age Concern Costa Calida” and help us raise the funds needed to continue our essential work.
For those in need of assistance with mobility, we offer a range of disability equipment for hire to help maintain independence and improve quality of life.
Our Social Centre on Camposol C is the heart of our community activities. Here, we host daily activities, monthly table top sales and regular parties fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment where you can engage in various hobbies, make new friends, and enjoy the ambiance.
Navigating the complexities of applying for Attendance Allowance can be daunting, but we’re here to help. Our knowledgeable team provides guidance and support through the application process, ensuring that our retirees receive the benefits they are entitled to.
Additionally, our Vintage Shop is open every weekday and offers a wonderful selection of pre-loved items. By shopping with us, you not only find great bargains but also support our charity’s mission.
For more information or to get involved, contact us at 0034 634 344 589 or email ageconcerncostacalida@gmail.
Join Age Concern Costa Calida in making a meaningful difference in the lives of our over 50’s and together we can create a caring and connected community.
Age Concern Social Centre
Social Centre: 2B Avenida de los Covachos, Camposol Sector C (C8), Telephone 634 312 516
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10:00 to 13:00
Age Concern telephone numbers:
Enquires: 634 344 589 (10am - 4pm Monday to Friday)
Lifeline: Mazarrón and Puerto de Mazarrón Area – 634 325 408; Camposol Area – 634 312 516
Events: 623 118 062 (10am - 4pm Monday to Friday)
Equipment Loan: 634 306 927 (10am - 4pm Monday to Friday)
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