PENISTONE and Stocksbridge MP Marie Tidball held an advice session for those affected by the winter fuel allowance changes yesterday – and is urging anyone who needs support to get in touch.

The decision to make the winter fuel payment means-tested was announced by Rachel Reeves earlier this year and was widely criticised.

It means that across Barnsley, 86.7 per cent of pensioners – a total of 38,779 who received the payment last year – will now miss out under the means-tested guidance.

But the council and MPs are offering support to anyone who needs it – and Ms Tidball held her own surgery yesterday in Dodworth for those who wished to attend.

She said: “I know many residents in Penistone and Stocksbridge are affected by changes to the winter fuel allowance.

“I’m working with our local authorities to make sure everyone who is eligible for additional support can access it, and that there is advice for those who are worried about how this change will affect them.

“Barnsley Council have sent letters to all households they believe are eligible for pension credit yet are not in receipt of it.

“They will be holding pension credit drop-in sessions if you need help to fill in the form for pension credit.”

The first session in Ms Tidball’s constituency will take place at Penistone Library on Wednesday, November 27 from 9am to 11.45am.

On Thursday, December 5, a session will be held at Dodworth Library from 10am to 1pm and then from 2pm to 4pm.

The final meeting will take place on Wednesday, December 18, from 9am to 11.45am – once again at Penistone Library.