NEW pensioner Cost of Living payments announced but will be 'one-off'

NEW pensioner Cost of Living payments have been announced for UK households. Brighton on the south coast is making extra financial support available this winter through the Brighton & Hove Fuel Payment for people of pensionable age.

The payments are for those in Brighton & Hove who are struggling to pay energy bills. The local council states: "We’re also urging residents to check if they are eligible for Pension Credit using the government’s Pension Credit calculator and apply for Pension Credit on the gov.uk website.

"Successful claims put in before 21 December will be back-dated, meaning residents will be able to receive this year’s winter fuel payment." It is offering one-off direct financial support if you are struggling to heat your home or pay your energy bills, and checking your eligibility for Pension Credit and Winter Fuel Payments and help to make an application.

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It also has energy advice on keeping warm in an affordable way this winter. "We’re encouraging all older residents worried about energy bills this winter to get in touch," the local authority, which is situated on the south coast, has said.

Councillor Mitchie Alexander, chair of the council's new Poverty Reduction Steering Group, said: “We’ve launched the Brighton & Hove Fuel Payment to support older residents struggling with energy costs this winter. We’re also very keen to make sure everyone eligible for Pension Credit is able to claim it.

“We’ve put in place a new team who can help check eligibility for Pension Credit, as well as provide direct financial help with energy costs and wider advice on keeping warm this winter. The support comes through our Fairness Fund, a key part of our action plan to support communities in the city who are struggling with the cost of living.

“We very much welcome the news that the government will be continuing the Household Support Fund, so we can continue to provide that vital support.”