WEEKLY column by Thornbury and Yate MP Claire Young.

As we approach winter, many people are rightly worried about what the next few months will bring.

Prices are always going up in the shops, people’s energy bills are still high, and people are still left reeling from the Government’s decision to cut the winter fuel payment.

This decision has left many blindsided and I have had huge numbers of concerned pensioners contact me to say they were only just scraping by and now face a £300 black hole just at a time when they need support the most.

From now on, only people in receipt of Pension Credit will receive the Winter Fuel Payment. Pension Credit is a top-up benefit for pensioners on low incomes, but last year over 850,000 people didn’t claim it.

This is despite the fact it makes you eligible for other support such as Housing Benefit.

You can check your eligibility and apply online at: www.gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator.

You can also make a claim over the phone by dialling 0800 99 1234.

The local Citizen’s Advice team is also helping people through several drop-in sessions at their Office in Yate.

These take place between 14:00-16:00 on Friday 11th October, Friday 8th November, and Friday 6th December with a trained advisor on hand to help.

You need to apply by December 21st to be eligible for this years’ Winter Fuel Payment, so please don’t delay.

Another thing we need to be mindful of as the weather begins to change is the risk of flooding.

We saw this recently, with a sudden deluge of rain causing flooding in areas like Tytherington, Henfield, and along the rail lines.

This is especially concerning for areas like Severn Beach.

Flooding can devastate whole communities and cause untold damage.

That’s why it’s important we stay vigilant and know what to do should the water levels begin to rise.

I attended a meeting with the Flooding Minister to discuss what help and support is available.

You can sign up for flood warnings online at www.gov.uk/sign-up-for-flood-warnings.

You can also check the latest live flood warnings, river levels and flood forecasts at www.check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk or by calling the free Floodline service on 0345 988 1188.