Pensioner cannot obtain a National Insurance Number

I am a pensioner with a pre settled status and I need a NINO for many reasons but I keep being told that it is not possible as I am not working or looking for work. I pay tax and have a UTR, but no NINO! What can be done to obtain one?

Hi,
Please see guidance on applying for a National Insurance number here:
Apply for a National Insurance number: Who can apply for a National Insurance number
Thank you.

Maybe you may have to let the system know that you are applying for work; sadly without success so far!

Thank you, Alan. I tried what you tell me, on line, and also in writing and on the Phone to HMRC, but to no avail. The answer is always the same: "you are not working or looking for work". And they do not know what I should do. When I came to UK I was already a pensioner, so I was not working or looking for work, nor am I now or will be in the future. I am asked for my Nino constantly. I have a Government Gateway Account with my ID and I am supposed to be able to do any of the things offered but the irony is that when I want to submit whatever it is, I am asked to introduce my NINO and it stops there because I have not a NINO.