Pensioners in Test Valley are being urged to come forward if they need financial help this winter.

This comes after borough councillors earlier this year extended the Test Valley Winter Fuel Payment Scheme, initially allocating £20,000 to the project, with the possibility of a further £20,000 if required.

The scheme, which has been in place since 2022, allows those who received a payment but did not need it to donate it to help others in the borough.

Following a government decision to no longer provide everyone over the age of 66 with a Winter Fuel Payment, the council wanted to make sure funding was still available for those struggling.

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Age UK estimates that around two million pensioners who need the money to stay warm this winter will not receive it due to the government changes.

Previously, everyone over the age of 66 would receive a payment.

The council wants to ensure funding is still available for those struggling.

Pensioners in need of extra support are encouraged to contact Citizens Advice (CA), who will assess whether the person qualifies for financial assistance.

Those identified for financial help will then be referred to Unity, a Test Valley-based charity that will hold the funding pot and make payments of up to £100 directly to residents.

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Cllr Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, 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.

"This money could be vital in supporting vulnerable pensioners in Test Valley and 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."

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

The council's initiative is a lifeline for many pensioners in the borough who may be struggling to make ends meet this winter.