Pensioners are being encouraged to find out if they qualify for Pension Credit to ensure they get access to certain benefits they are entitled to.

The UK Government has scrapped the universal Winter Fuel Payment for pensioners unless they get Pension Credit.

Now, a Labour MP in the city is offering benefit drop-in sessions for people to get advice on what is available.

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It is estimated that more than one third of pensioners who are entitled to Pension Credit are not claiming it.

The benefit tops up their income to a guaranteed £218.15 per week for single claimants and £332.95 for a couple.

It also acts as a gateway to certain other benefits including the £300 Winter Fuel Payment.

Zubir Ahmad, Glasgow South West Labour MP has set up the advice sessions in his constituency for people.

He said as well as Pension Credit many pensioners are not getting help with rent they are entitled to through Housing Benefit.

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Across the UK around £2.8bn worth of Pension Credit is unclaimed.

Labour has come under criticism from opposition parties and many of its own members as well as groups representing older people for the decision to cut the winter fuel payment.

In Scotland the payment is devolved but the Scottish Government said it will also have to means test the benefit because the UK decision will reduce its budget.

Ahmed said: “Pension Credit can really help to support pensioners who are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, as we try to rectify fourteen years of austerity policies implemented by the Conservative Government.

“I want to make sure that every one of my constituents in Glasgow South West who is entitled to Pension Credit, receives it.

“This is why I’ve set up these drop-in sessions. We also recognise that there is a significant number of people who are missing out on other benefits.

“Ensuring people are accessing benefits they are entitled to, enables households and public services to better cope with the cost-of-living crisis.”

The sessions are Darnley Community Centre, 10 Glen Livet Place. October 11 10:30 am–12:30pm.   

Swamp Media Centre  27 Brockburn Road. October 4 & 18 11am–12:30pm.

Tea in the Pot at The Pearce Institute. 840-860 Govan Road. October 7 & 21 and November 4 12 pm–2 pm.