NEARLY ten thousand Winchester pensioners could be affected by potential changes to the Single Person Discount for Council Tax, a meeting heard.

There is speculation that the Autumn Statement on October 30 could include its removal.

Conservative city councillor Stephen Godfrey, who represents Wonston and Micheldever ward, asked at full Council how many older people could be affected in the district.

Deputy leader Neil Cutler, who represents Southwick and Wickham, said the council did not keep records of how many OAPs claim the discount but working on Census records he estimated a figure of around 8-9,000 people.

READ MORE HERE: Population of Winchester district increase by a tenth in only 10 years

Cllr Cutler said there are 17,301 single person households of all ages out of 58,000 across the district.

Cllr Godfrey said the average household income in the Winchester district is only £18,000.

He asked: "Many pensioners are reluctant to claim financial support to what they are entitled. If the Government does remove single person discount what steps will the city council take to provide additional support to the most vulnerable in our community?"

Cllr Cutler said this was all speculation but that any changes, including with the Winter Fuel Allowance would "cause hardship and not just for OAPs".

(Image: Contributed)

On Winter Fuel Payments, Tory councillor Neil Bolton, who represents Upper Meon Valley, said 27,000 Winchester people could lose the £300 which will have a "devastating impact on vulnerable people with winter. Vulnerable people will be forced to choose between heating and eating well."

Cllr Kathleen Becker, cabinet member for Community and Engagement, said Citizens Advice were trying to make sure all new clients were getting all the benefits they are eligible for. Council staff would also guide residents.