Many pensioners are facing a tough winter ahead as the government has decided to cut winter fuel payments for millions of people. This means they’ll have to dig deeper into their pockets to stay warm, and experts are warning of serious consequences.
The government is now only giving winter fuel payments to pensioners who are claiming Pension Credit. This means around 10 million pensioners in England and Wales are missing out on this vital support.
Who is Missing Out?
An analysis by Policy in Practice, a company that studies social policies, has found that 130,000 pensioners are missing out on the fuel payments because they are just over the threshold for receiving Pension Credit. These pensioners are effectively on a “financial cliff edge,” as even a small drop in their income means they lose access to essential support.
The Risks
Experts are worried about the impact this change will have on pensioners. Jan Shortt, from the National Pensioners Convention, says that many pensioners will have to choose between heating their homes and buying food. She is concerned that this will lead to more people getting sick and even dying from the cold.
What the Government Says
The government says they have to make tough decisions to fix the economy. They argue that focusing the payments on those who need them most is the right thing to do. They also say they are working with local authorities to help more pensioners claim Pension Credit.
A Controversial Decision
This change has been very unpopular. A recent poll found that 49% of people think the government made the wrong decision.
What You Can Do
If you are a pensioner and you are worried about staying warm this winter, it is important to check if you are eligible for Pension Credit. You can find information on the government website or by calling the Pension Credit helpline.
Don’t let the cold catch you out. Check your options and take action to ensure you can stay warm this winter.