The MP for East Hampshire has urged his older constituents to check whether they are eligible for Pension Credit as thousands could be missing out.

Damian Hinds believes its vital that pensioners know about the benefit now winter fuel payments are being scrapped.

More one million people claim Pension Credit every year but the number could be nearly double as many don’t apply or aren’t aware they are eligible.

East Hampshire is a microcosm as just 1,240 people in the constituency are currently receiving Pension Credit payments.

“With winter fuel payments ending for all but the lowest-income pensioners, and the energy price cap rising by ten per cent this month, now is the time for everyone over 66 to check whether they are entitled to claim Pension Credit,” said Mr Hinds.

“We need to avoid the double whammy of pensioners losing their winter fuel payment from this month and not taking up the extra financial help available from Pension Credit payments.”

The Conservative has pointed out there has been Pension Credit take-up drives in the past, but take-up has only ranged from 62 to 68 per cent regardless of who is in government.

Damian added: “It’s proved challenging in the past, but I’d like to see this becoming a national priority.

“With so many pensioners in East Hampshire set to lose their winter fuel payment, it’s now more important than ever to remind them of this vital benefit.”

Damian has encouraging pensioners on low incomes to visit:www.gov.uk/pension-credit/how-to-claim