Laura Sharman 27 September 2019

Older people face ‘significant barriers’ in applying for EU Settlement Scheme

The Government has been warned it could face a ‘Windrush 2’ as vulnerable older people are failing to apply to the EU settlement scheme (EUSS) in time.

Age UK has warned older EU nationals living in the UK could be shut out of public services or even be put at risk of deportation if they do not register by the deadline.

Figures show that only 16% of EU nationals aged 65 and above have made an application to the EUSS compared to 30% of working age people.

The charity said the Government expects most people to register online, even though a quarter of over-65s have not used the internet in the last three months. Older people may also face physical ill health, dementia or other forms of cognitive problems that can prevent them for applying.

Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, said: ‘A compulsory Settlement Scheme, designed to operate mostly online and with potentially dire consequences for anyone who fails to comply with it, spells big trouble ahead we fear for thousands of older people who have lived for donkey’s years in this country.’

She added: ‘Older people living with dementia and older people who are not in touch with public services and who keep themselves to themselves are especially at risk we believe, and they should not be penalised as a result.’

The Local Government Association (LGA) said it was working with the Home Office to raise awareness of the scheme.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, chairman of the LGA’s Brexit Taskforce, said: 'In particular, we are seeking greater clarity surrounding the roles and responsibilities of and funding for councils and local partners for people receiving care and support. Providing councils with regular and detailed breakdowns of outstanding applications will also assist in identifying pockets of where more targeted support may be needed.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Director of Public Health

Royal Borough of Greenwich
Up to £131,210
The Public Health department is at the heart of the council’s business. Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich

Head of Regeneration and Growth

Plymouth City Council
£68,387 - £74,411 (MFS and relocation available, pay award pending)
This is a unique opportunity to lead our award-winning development team and directly deliver hundreds of millions of pounds of projects. Plymouth, Devon
Recuriter: Plymouth City Council

Director of Adult Social Care

Wiltshire Council
£119,390 - £127,137
Join us as the Director of Adult Social Care and make a real difference to people’s lives. Wiltshire
Recuriter: Wiltshire Council

Assistant Director Planning, Performance & Engagement

East Sussex County Council
up to £97,700
With strong local communities, unspoilt countryside and vibrant coastal towns, East Sussex offers an exceptional quality of life to many. East Sussex
Recuriter: East Sussex County Council

Director of Finance & Commerce

Lancashire County Council
Up to £114,339
You will play a critical role in driving the organisation through complex change and innovation. Lancashire
Recuriter: Lancashire County Council
Linkedin Banner