People aged 60 or over who have not received a Winter Fuel Payment before should check if they are eligible.

That is the message from Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie as this year's qualifying week for inclusion approaches. People aged 60 or over before 24 September 2007 can qualify for £200 per household, rising to £300 for those over 80 years.

The Minister said: "Most people receive this important benefit automatically if they already receive a State Pension or other social security benefit (excluding Housing Benefit or Child Benefit). But we are concerned that there are others, perhaps those who are working, who do not realise that they are eligible. We would encourage them to contact the Social Security Agency to check if they can claim".

"Winter Fuel Payments were introduced in 1997 to give financial assistance towards the cost of heating to people aged 60 and over. The payment has increased from £20 to its present £200 since it began which is well above the rate of inflation. There is no doubt that some older people have difficulty budgeting for the cost of fuel. This payment will make a difference and I say to them – don't miss out."

The Winter Fuel payment is available to people who reach the qualifying ages during the qualifying week, 17 - 23 September 2007. Claim forms can be obtained by ringing the Winter Fuel Payment helpline on 08459 15 15 15. Claims must be received by 30 March 2008 but those who submit their applications before 21 September 2007 should receive their payment before Christmas.

People aged 60 or over who own their own homes or rent from a private landlord (other than the Northern Ireland Housing Executive) and who are in receipt of means-tested benefits may also be eligible for Warm Homes Plus which provides heating and insulation to over 60s in receipt of means tested benefits. The Minister pointed out that the eligibility criteria for the scheme was extended in May 2006 to include: people on non means tested benefits such as Attendance Allowance and Disability Living Allowance; a Benefit Entitlement Check to all recipients of Warm Homes measures; and a free boiler service a year after installation. She said: "Over the last four years more that 30,000 families have benefited from energy efficiency measures ranging from hot water jackets to full central heating systems for pensioners. Funding has increased from just over £3million 2001 to more than £20million in the current financial year."