I didn’t go into politics to make life harder for anyone, nor did any of my Labour colleagues. Unfortunately after 14 years of a Tory government, we have had to come to terms with the reality of the public finances, and how reckless the last government was with the public purse.

Labour is committed to the triple lock on pensions, which should see the state pension rise by £460 from April. Labour is tackling the root causes to fix our public services, ensuring that our NHS is fit for purpose as well as our Warm Homes Plan which will see investment in low carbon heating and insulation, reducing energy costs for millions.

The Tories left us an inheritance that meant we needed to make immediate tough decisions, but Labour will always be honest about the state of our finances and we will always ensure that those who need support will get it from this government.

Under the last Tory government, over 800,000 eligible pensioners didn’t get the benefits they were entitled to. While they failed on Pension Credit, we are determined to make a difference and ensure thousands of pensioners claim Pension Credit which will unlock winter fuel payments and other benefits. I encourage everyone to check if you or they are
eligible by visiting the following link: www.gov.uk/pension-credit/eligibility or by calling the Pension Credit claim line at 0800 99 1234.

There is also support available through Bolton Council and the Household Support Fund. Please visit https://www.bolton.gov.uk/cost-living or visit the One Stop Shop at Bolton Town Hall if you need any support with paying bills or making sure that you are getting all the benefits you are entitled to.

You can also check your eligibility for other benefits using the Age UK Benefit Calculator which can be found here: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/money-legal/benefits-entitlements/benefits-calculator/