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

Senior Project Manager (Regeneration)

West Yorkshire Combined Authority
£49,359 to £56,057 per annum (pay award pending) – Grade 9
With ambitious goals ahead, we need dedicated individuals who are ready to make a real impact as part of our expanding Housing team Leeds / Hybrid
Recuriter: West Yorkshire Combined Authority

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerPermanent, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerFixed Term, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

HR Advisor - Pay & Policy (Career Grade)

Wakefield Council
Grade 9 - Grade 10, Career Grade, 24 hours, Permanent
Are you ready to make a difference and shape policies that foster a high performing and inclusive workplace? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Leisure Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£12,013.50 - £12,202.00, Grade 3, 18.5 hours, Permanent
Are You Ready to Make a Difference in Your Community? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council
Linkedin Banner