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

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Strategic Director, Corporate Services

City of Bradford MDC
c£162,000 per annum, more for an exceptional candidate
Bradford is at an extraordinary moment of transformation Bradford, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: City of Bradford MDC

Director of Human Resources

City of Bradford MDC
£119,466 - £131,207
Bradford is at an extraordinary moment of transformation Bradford, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: City of Bradford MDC

Director of Resources (Section 151 Officer)

North Kesteven District Council
£109,668 – £117,623
Create the conditions for long-term prosperity
Recuriter: North Kesteven District Council

Director of Libraries, Sport and Physical Activity & Communities

Glasgow Life
£102,894.01 - £116,854.38 per year
Our teams focus on making a real difference through culture and sport in Glasgow. Glasgow, Glasgow City
Recuriter: Glasgow Life
Linkedin Banner