The recent changes mean the Winter Fuel Allowance will now be restricted to only those on Pension Credit or other low-income benefits. Despite this, we're committed to making sure all our pensioners in need have the help they need to stay warm and well this winter.

We're using the Household Support Fund, funded by the UK Government, to provide crucial aid to those who may not qualify for the Winter Fuel Allowance. We're making sure no one is left without the help they need during the colder months.

You'll find details of these initiatives, including details on drop-in sessions and other available support on this page.

We've been made aware of winter fuel and financial support scams circulating and targeting people.

Any text messages you may receive from us will include a name ID and will not come from a standard mobile telephone number.

Please be vigilant when sharing your personal information.

Pension Credit

Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you're over the state pension age and on a low income. It can also give you access to a range of other benefits. This can include helping with housing costs, winter fuel payment, Council Tax, heating bills, prescriptions, and for those 75 or over - a free TV licence.

Although take up of Pension Credit is high, many people are missing out.

If you aren’t sure if you qualify then we have a free and easy to use calculator below. If you need help with the forms to apply we also have drop in sessions available.

Apply for Pension Credit on the GOV.UK website. Alternatively you can print the form to complete.

Benefits calculator

If you're not sure if you qualify for Pension Credit or other benefits then you can complete our quick and simple benefits calculator. This will give you an indication of what you may be eligible for and how to apply for it.

If you need help completing this you can visit one of our drop in sessions listed on this page, where you can get help to complete the forms.

Pension Credit drop-in sessions

The current drop-in sessions are below. This list will continue to be updated, so keep checking back here for more dates or see the Barnsley Chronicle every Friday.

Other winter support

While we know many pensioners are missing out on Pension Credit, there are also people who aren't eligible for that benefit and need help this winter. If that's the case we have other support available for you this winter.