DWP reminder to be sent to two million British Gas customers over benefit that can make 'significant difference'

British Gas is writing to older customers to urge them to take up pension credit, after Labour cut winter fuel payments for those not currently claiming the benefit.

British Gas said it is “our responsibility” to provide assistance to its customers with around 10 million fewer people estimated to miss out on winter fuel payments this year due to the cut.

Winter fuel payments will be restricted to those receiving pension credits, under Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ new plans announced in July. This means the benefit will be taken away from all but the poorest pensioners in the country. Around 11.5 million people used to receive it, falling to fewer than two million this year.

Now, the energy company says it will write to around two million people - customers who are pension age and above - encouraging them to take up the pension credit benefit if they qualify.

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British Gas says it will also reopen an annual winter scheme which will provide financial help for customers, with around an additional £40 million going to measures such as matching debt repayments and support grants.

The energy company has also increased the maximum grant it offers from £1,500 to £2,000, which comes after similar declarations from other suppliers.

Chris O’Shea, chief executive of British Gas’ parent company Centrica, said that while some cost-of-living pressures have eased, the crisis is “far from over” for lots of families.

He said: “At the end of each week or month there will be those that have little, if any, money left after paying for life’s essentials. We are committed to ensuring that all pensioners are fully informed about their eligibility for pension