Are you entitled to winter fuel payment?

Mr Storey said: “Over recent days local GPs have been contacting cancer patients who are eligible to receive this one off £100 payment. This payment is intended to help towards paying fuel bills at this time of year for people who because of their condition would be more vulnerable.

“To date approximately 4,500 forms have been submitted by people seeking the payment.

“I would want to take this opportunity to urge anyone who thinks they may be eligible but who have not been contacted by their GP as yet, to get in touch with their local health care centre.

“Eligible patients include people who have received surgery for cancer within the qualifying period 13 June 2011 to 18 December 2011; people who have received radiotherapy, chemotherapy or palliative care for cancer within the qualifying period 13 June 2011 to 18 December 2011; or people for whom a decision is made, during the qualifying week of 12 to 18 December 2011, to provide treatment for cancer in the form of surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy or palliative care.

“There is also a helpline number available to anyone with further questions - 028 9032 1313.”