Pensioners in Hull are being urged to explore what financial assistance they might be eligible for, including Pension Credit.

The Government is altering the Winter Fuel Payment scheme, which means those above state pension age won't automatically receive help. Eligibility will now be restricted to those on Pension Credit or other means-tested benefits.

According to Hull City Council, Pension Credit tops up weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level of £218.15 a week for single pensioners or £332.95 for couples. Those claiming may also be eligible for a range of other benefits, including council tax and housing costs. If over 75, those on Pension Credit qualify for a free TV licence.

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The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have said that there are up to 850,000 pensioner households across the country that may be eligible for Pension Credit but do not claim it. Some pensioners think because they have savings, that they are not eligible.

The DWP also say that other factors where pensioners wrongly think they cannot claim include them working, getting a small occupational pension or they may have been turned down previously.

As a result, pensioners are being encouraged to use a Pension Credit calculator to find out eligibility and how much could be claimed.

Hull City Council's Leader, Councillor Mike Ross, said: "We know the cost of living has hit pensioners in Hull hard and with energy bills planned to rise again this winter will be difficult for many people. As a Council, we are keen to support pensioners as much as we can.

"Given the Government's changes to Winter Fuel Payments, I would urge anyone who is eligible for Pension Credit to sign up. There is a range of support available to provide help during the colder months, including warm spaces in our communities. But it is also important that our older people can access all the help they are eligible for, and we know there could be many who are not receiving Pension Credit when they are entitled to it."

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