PENSIONERS on low income in Castle Point are being urged to sign up to a government scheme to get an extra £300 cost-of-living boost.

Rebecca Harris MP encouraged residents to “please share” guidance on how elderly people can claim Pension Credit to qualify for an additional £299.

She said: “Make sure you are claiming Pension Credit by March 5 to ensure you qualify for an additional boost.

“Pension Credit, which averages over £3,900 a year, is there to lend a hand with day-to-day expenses for those who have reached State Pension age and are on a low income.

“Across the UK, there are there are an estimated 880,000 households eligible for the support who are yet to claim it.

“I want to make sure every pensioner who is eligible for it in Castle Point applies as soon as possible.”

Those who successfully apply before March 5 will also be eligible for a £299 backdated cost-of-living payment.

Check eligibility and make a claim by visiting gov.uk/pension-credit/how-to-claim or call 0800 99 1234.

Residents can apply any time after reaching State Pension age, but applications can only be backdated by three months.