ONE of Warrington’s MPs has asked for steps to encourage the take up of pension credit.

It follows the Labour Government’s announcement that it is scrapping winter fuel payments for millions of pensioners.

From this autumn, pensioners not on pension credit or other means-tested benefits will no longer get annual winter fuel payments, worth between £100 and £300.

Warrington North MP Charlotte Nichols submitted a written question regarding pension credit take-up to the Department for Work and Pensions.

Labour MP Ms Nichols said: “What steps does the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions plan to take to encourage take-up of pension credit?

This was answered by Emma Reynolds, Parliamentary Under-Secretary for the Department for Work and Pensions.

She replied: “The Government is determined to ensure that the poorest pensioners get the support they need.

“As part of the current Pension Credit Week of Action, we have joined forces with national charities, broadcasters and local authorities to encourage pensioners to check their eligibility and make a claim.

“From 16 September, we will be running a national marketing campaign on a range of channels.

“The campaign will target potential pension-age customers, as well as friends and family who can encourage and support them to apply.

“Our future campaign messaging will also focus on encouraging pensioners to apply for pension credit before December 21, which is the last date for making a successful backdated claim for pension credit in order to receive a winter fuel payment.

“We will work with external partners, local authorities and the devolved governments to boost the take-up of pension credit.”