More than half (53 per cent) of pensioners don't like to ask for support from their friends or family, even if they need it, research from Royal London has found.

Over two-thirds (37 per cent) also described asking for help as "uncomfortable".

As a result, Royal London claimed that some pensioners were not accessing important financial support, such as pension credit, for which they may qualify.

Pension credit offers pensioners extra money to help with living costs, provided they are over the state pension age and on a low income.

The research revealed that two-fifths (40 per cent) of UK pensioners had not checked whether they qualified for pension credit.

Of those who hadn't checked if they were eligible, three-quarters (75 per cent) didn't believe they would qualify for pension credit, and 10 per cent thought the process would require too much financial assistance.

The research also highlighted that of those who have been told they qualify, 11 per cent had yet to apply for pension credit, and only a small fraction (2 per cent) intended to do so before the deadline to get the winter fuel payment.

Psychiatrist, Emma Kelly, said many pensioners were missing out on support because they "felt ashamed" or were "reluctant" to ask for help.

"For many, there's a stigma around seeking assistance, often rooted in the belief that it's a sign of failure or that others might need it more.

"This is particularly true for older generations who were raised to value self-reliance and may see asking for help as a loss of independence or dignity, when, in fact it means that they are taking control which is ultimately an empowering action to take."

Royal London consumer finance specialist, Sarah Pennells, added: "The government's decision around the winter fuel payments has brought into sharp focus the importance of applying for pension credit.

"Not only does it give pensioners on a low-income extra money, but it entitles them to extra help with, for example, energy and housing costs. However, too many pensioners – approximately three-quarters of a million - are still missing out on this financial support.

"Some of the main reasons people miss out on pension credit are because they don't think they would qualify, or they don't check because they feel too ashamed to admit they need extra help. We need to spread the message that there is no shame in accepting help that is available."

---