I KNOW many local pensioners are angry with me over the Government’s decision to restrict the Winter Fuel Allowance to those pensioners who need it most.

I understand your anger and I share it. The Conservatives left this country broke and broken – including a £22billion black hole in the nation’s finances. So the government has been forced to make tough decisions now to fix the foundations of our economy.

But because we’ve done this, we can protect the State Pension ‘Triple Lock’ – not just this year but for every single year of this Parliament, meaning every pensioner will be better off under this government. And we are still protecting those pensioners who need our support most.

The Winter Fuel Payment was introduced by Labour at a time when a quarter of all pensioners were living in poverty and struggling with the cost of living. Thankfully, there are now far fewer pensioners living in poverty and energy bills are starting to come down (although I know they are still too high).

But there are still too many pensioners having to make difficult choices this winter and it is important for those in need to know that help is still available to you.

Around 7,500 pensioners in Cumbria are eligible for Pension Credit but not claiming it. That is 7,500 people losing an average of about £3,900 per year. I am urging local pensioners to apply for the benefit, which from this year will also automatically passport eligible pensioners to receive the Winter Fuel Payment – pushing the total average entitlement over £4,000.

I want to make sure every local pensioner gets every penny they are entitled to, so please, friends, family and neighbours, if you know someone who needs help, please support them to make an application for Pension Credit by calling 0800 99 1234.

For those not eligible because you fall just outside the threshold, you can still get help if you’re struggling. Under the previous government the Household Support Fund was set to run out at the end of September.

Labour have injected £421 million to extend it through the winter, giving pensioners and others who may struggle this winter extra support with energy bills, food costs and other essentials. Call Cumberland Council to find out more on 0300 373 3730.

My team and I are also on hand to provide any help we can to those who need it. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch by e-mailing hello@joshmacalister.uk or by calling 01946 458023.