Inverclyde MSP holds 'winter fuel payment' drop-in event

Stuart McMillan teamed up with the Inverclyde Trust and charity Independent Age to host a vital drop in event targeting pensioners who have lost the universal benefit.

He told the Tele that since the UK Government's shock decision to axe the payment for all but the very poorest pensioners, there has been a jump in the number of people calling his office looking for help. 

READ MORE: Inverclyde MP faces criticism after winter fuel payment cut

Mr McMillan said: "I am planning to do more drop-ins like these, in particular targeting pensioners.

"We have had a lot more calls to our office from pensioners worried how they will manage.

"We have run drop-ins like this before to help with the rise in energy bills.

"There is help out there. We know there are thousands of pensioners who could be claiming pension credit and we want to reach them.

"I just hope these events can help people get peace of mind and the help they need.

"What is important is that if people can get pension credit, it opens up other opportunities to claim other support as well."

The UK Government's decision to severely limit eligibility for the winter fuel payment was defended by Inverclyde's new MP, Martin McCluskey, who said it was "not a decision anyone wanted to make", but which was essential to help plug a hole in the public finances left behind by the Conservatives.

Independent Age support with Louise Brady (Image: George Munro)

Independent Age's policy and public affairs Louise Brady was at the Port Glasgow venue.

She said: “It was good to be able to speak to older people directly about how important it is to receive everything you’re entitled to.

"We estimate that around £3.6 million of Pension Credit is going unclaimed annually by around 1,590 older households across Greenock and Inverclyde. With temperatures already dropping, it is essential older people receive all of the support that is available to them.”

Together they hope to be able to help pensioners who will suffer the most from losing the payment.

Mr McMillan added: "It's important that all older people find out what they are entitled to. Thanks to Independent Age and all the other attending organisations for the vital work they do in making sure those in later life don't miss out.

"I encourage any older person who is unsure about what they might be entitled to or is worried about the cost of living to get advice on their entitlements."

MSP Stuart McMillan, right, with Advice Direct Scotland (Image: George Munro) On the day Inverclyde HSCP's advice services were also on hand to offer advice and information along with  Advice Direct Scotland, Inverclyde HSCP advice services, River Clyde Homes and Social Security Scotland.

The Inverclyde Trust, based in John Wood Street, also works with older people, providing a befriending service.

Pension Credit is a financial top-up for people over State Pension age, usually with an income of under £218.15 if you’re single or £332.95 in a couple. As well as an increased weekly income for those eligible, older people can receive other entitlements such as Housing Benefit, free dental and glasses and a free TV License for those over 75.

In addition, people who claim Pension Credit before 21 December 2024 and can successfully backdate their claim by three months to the qualifying week of 16 - 22 September can receive Winter Fuel Payment, which is between £200 and £300 to help pay heating bills in the winter.

Older people who think they may be eligible for Pension Credit, can apply directly online through gov.uk or through the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234. They can also call Independent Age on 0800 319 6789 to receive a free welfare benefits check. Trained advisors can talk applicants through forms and eligibility and provide help in applying.