PLANS have been announced to help low income pensioners 'bridge the gap' this winter with a £200 payment.

Cheshire West and Chester Council has announced a new measure to support those pensioners who miss out on pension credit, but still have a low income.

Subject to the proposal being approved, the council will identify eligible pensioner households and issue them a £200 payment.

Cllr Carol Gahan, the Labour council's cabinet member for legal and finance, said: "Energy bills are an understandable worry for pensioners who receive a low income, and the changes to winter fuel allowance this year mean those above the pension credit threshold are facing a cliff edge.

"I’m proud the Labour administration of Cheshire West and Chester Council has stepped up to bridge the gap and help low income pensioners.

"Our plan is that before the end of the year, every eligible low income pensioner household that has missed out on pension credit will receive a £200 payment."

Eligible low income pensioner households will be identified using council tax reduction scheme and housing benefit data records, there will be no need for people to apply.

Controversial changes planned by the Government will see only those pensioners in receipt of pension credit or other means tested benefits be eligible for the winter fuel payment of up to £300.

Yesterday it was reported around 66,000 pensioners in Cheshire West will miss out on the payment as two notices of motion were submitted to be discussed at full council next week.

One motion, tabled by Conservative councillors, calls on members to request the council leader to write to the Chancellor, urging a review of the decision, and asking the Government to ensure that vulnerable pensioners, particularly those not claiming pension credit, are 'protected from fuel poverty'.

The second, submitted by Labour councillors, calls on the council to back ‘mitigations’ against the impact of the changes, including the £200 payment plan.