Barnsley Council have been providing vital support to Barnsley pensioners. In October, cabinet approved the Household Support Fund (HSF) for Barnsley, funded by the UK Government, to support pensioners through the challenging winter months.  

Cllr Sir Steve Houghton, Leader of Barnsley Council, said: “This is Barnsley Council stepping in to support our pensioners. Our comprehensive package of support focuses on low-income pensioner households, particularly those no longer eligible for the Winter Fuel Allowance.  
“We’ve already made an impact on people’s lives across the borough.” 

Since October, we have: 

• Run a borough-wide awareness campaign to promote and encourage people to apply for pension credit. Information can be used online, on social media, in local media and news publications, in leaflet drops, in door knocking, and in promotional stands in our town centre and community buildings.  

• Held 42 drop-in sessions across the borough and spoken to more than 420 residents about Pension Credit. We’ve referred more than 100 people to our commissioned local voluntary sector organisations, Barnsley Citizens Advice Bureau and DIAL, for more support with applying for Pension Credit and getting the Winter Fuel Allowance payment that they’re entitled to.   

• Issued 1,793 letters to residents who we have identified from our data as not currently getting Pension Credit but could be eligible. We’ve encouraged them to apply.    

• Issued 1,009 £200 vouchers to residents who are on a low income below £21,498 and not eligible for pension credits but claiming Local Council Tax Support. 
   
• Offered an additional scheme for pensioner households under the £21,498 threshold who are not eligible for Pension Credit and are not claiming Local Council Tax Support. These households can apply for a discretionary £200 payment, which will be available for a limited time and subject to a capped fund.  

“The Household Support Fund is a crucial lifeline for some of our most vulnerable residents, providing them with the help they need to stay safe and warm. I encourage you to speak to your family or friends who might be eligible for Pension Credit and support them to apply.” 
 
For more information about the Household Support Fund, Pension Credit application help, and other available support, visit our More Money in Your Pocket webpage – www.barnsley.gov.uk/MMIYP