The government says it has been working to boost take-up and eligible claims can be backdated.

Dujardin's international ban, handed out by the FEI - the world governing body of equestrian sports - is backdated to the start of her provisional suspension and she will be eligible to compete again from July 2025.

Those who apply before 21 December will receive backdated payments of both pension credit and the winter fuel allowance, and the DWP has deployed 500 extra staff to handle claims for the benefit.

Those who apply before 21 December will receive backdated payments of both Pension Credit and the winter fuel allowance.

BBC News NI understands a pay award backdated to this August is currently being considered by union representatives.