Blog Layout

Carla Lockhart MP Launches New Advice Clinic at Mourneview Community House to Support Pensioners with Pension Credit and Winter Fuel Payment Applications

Carla Lockhart MP • September 25, 2024

Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart, has announced a new initiative to assist pensioners across Upper Bann following the Labour Party's decision to cut the Universal Winter Fuel Payment. Despite voting against this policy in Westminster, the cuts have been enforced, and now pensioners must qualify for Pension Credit to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.

In response, Carla Lockhart is launching a series of Advice Clinics to help pensioners navigate the Pension Credit application process. The first clinic will be held at Mourneview Community House to ensure those who may be eligible get the support they need.


First Clinic Details:

- Location: Mourneview Community House (Greenhill Park) 

- Date: Wednesday, 2nd October 

- Time: 12 noon – 2 pm 


Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart, said: 

“The Labour Party's cut to the Universal Winter Fuel Payment is deeply unfair to our pensioners, especially as we head into the colder months. While I fought against this decision in Parliament, it is now critical that we support our older population by ensuring they qualify for Pension Credit. I am committed to making sure no one is left behind or confused by the process."


Along with her team, Carla Lockhart will be present at the clinics to offer direct assistance in checking eligibility and applying for Pension Credit. The clinics will also provide support for other general issues that local residents may want to raise. Additional clinic dates across Upper Bann will be announced in the coming weeks.


For further assistance, residents are encouraged to contact Carla Lockhart's office directly at any time.

Share

By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has said the closure of Santander’s Portadown branch on 30 June 2025 is yet another blow to high street banking, leaving many customers, especially older people, businesses, and those without digital banking access-without vital services. 
By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has consistently challenged Labour’s decision last year to strip pensioners not in receipt of pension credit of the vital Winter Fuel Payment branding it as “nothing short of disgraceful”. At a time when the cost of living continues to rise and energy prices remain high, this callous move left many older people struggling to heat their homes.
By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Last week marked National Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Day, a time to acknowledge and celebrate the exceptional work of Cancer CNSs across Northern Ireland. These highly skilled professionals play a crucial role in supporting cancer patients and their families, providing expert care, guidance, and reassurance at every stage of the journey. 
By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised Northern Ireland Volleyball following their resounding success in retaining the St Patrick’s Challenge Trophy on 15 March. The annual fixture, which sees Northern Ireland take on the Republic of Ireland, saw Northern Ireland’s four national teams secure a 3-1 victory over their counterparts in an exciting day of top-class sport. 
By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the fantastic community spirit on display at a series of events in Portadown to mark St Patrick’s Day.
By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed the announcement by Education Minister Paul Givan MLA that the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS) will be extended into the 2025/26 financial year, with a 10% increase in the subsidy payment cap from 1st April. 
By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Carla Lockhart MP has praised the Lurgan and Brownlow Branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL) for securing £7,500 in funding to improve accessibility at their premises. The grant, provided by the Veterans’ Foundation, has enabled the installation of a new stairlift, ensuring better access for veterans and members of the local community.
By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Carla Lockhart MP has welcomed a new initiative from Macmillan Cancer Support aimed at improving access to public toilets for people living with cancer. 
By Carla Lockhart MP March 18, 2025
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has challenged the government on its deeply concerning proposals for changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Universal Credit, warning that the reforms could disproportionately harm those in genuine need. 
By Carla Lockhart MP March 17, 2025
Reports that lab-grown meat will be available for human consumption in the UK within two years has attracted backlash from farmers and consumers. 
More Posts
Share by: