Romsey residents above the age of 66, who may be in need of a little extra financial help, are being urged to contact Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC).

Towards the end of 2022, TVBC, Unity and Citizens Advice Test Valley launched a scheme where anyone who receives a winter fuel payment but doesn’t necessarily need it, was able to donate it to help other pensioners in the area struggling with the rising cost of living.

At least £1,300 has already been given to Unity, and with TVBC match funding any donations, it currently has around £2,600 to distribute to those in need.

But it’s important for people above the age of 66 to come forward and ask for help if they need it.

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Anyone with an older relative who could do with a little extra financial help is encouraged to direct them to Citizens Advice, which is administering the funds.

Residents can contact Citizens Advice at 0808 178 6882 or go to their website testvalleycab.org.uk. 

Citizens Advice Test Valley chief officer Ange Moon said: “At a time when everyone is finding the cost of living a struggle there is no embarrassment in asking for a little extra help.

“We are here to support you, and our team will make sure you feel comfortable from the very first time you contact us. I know reaching out for help can be a tough thing to do, but I promise that you will feel much better for doing so.”

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Leader of TVBC Cllr Phil North said: “We want to make sure that anyone above the age of 66 is getting the help and support they need in these difficult times but we also need those people to make themselves known to us. People have been very generous with their donations so far, so we need to make sure we are distributing that money to pensioners in the borough who need it most.

“If your elderly relative or friend could benefit from this please encourage them to contact Citizens Advice, they will be more than happy to help them. Thank you to those who have donated all or some of their Winter Fuel Payment to Unity, your community spirit and support are very much appreciated.”

Anyone wishing to donate some of their Winter Fuel Payment can still do so by contacting Unity at 03304 004 116, or by visiting unityonline.org.uk/winter-fuel-payment-donations.