Jersey pensioners to receive £734 annual increase

Jersey pensioners are set to receive an annual increase of £734 in their old age pension following the introduction of a 4.7% top-up.

The increase, equivalent to around £14 a week for someone receiving the full pension, will bring the annual payment to £16,294.

The Government of Jersey updates the old age pension every October, with the increase based on at least the recorded rise in the Pensioner Retail Price Index for June.

Social Security Minister Senator Elaine Millar said additional financial support would also be available to pensioners on lower incomes, including cold weather payments and assistance with healthcare costs.

"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," she said.

Senator Millar said pensioners facing financial pressure from healthcare and heating costs could also benefit from schemes including Pension Plus, the Health Access Scheme and the Cold Weather Bonus.

She encouraged anyone who believed they might qualify for additional assistance to check what support was available.

The minister has also said that introducing mandatory workplace pensions alongside the government pension is one of her priorities.