44% of over 65s worried about health after losing winter fuel payment

Almost half (44%) of those aged 65 and over think losing the winter fuel payment will harm their health, new research from Independent Age shows.

Changing behaviour

Many older folks feel they must change how they live this winter because of the lost payment.

Half (49%) plan to heat only one room. One in five (20%) had already considered this option, while an additional 29% stated they would take this step.

In a similar vein, 43% intended to wear hats and coats indoors to keep warm. Of those, 15% were already contemplating this, and another 28% now believe they need to do it as well.

Bring us back in from the cold

More than 500,000 older people and supportive organisations will hand in their signatures to Downing Street and the Treasury on Wednesday (16 October), urging the government to rethink means testing the payment.

They’re being supported by a variety of charities and campaigning organisations, including Independent Age, Silver Voices, End Fuel Poverty Coalition, and more.

Joanna Elson CBE, chief executive of Independent Age, is urging the government to ensure that everyone eligible for pension credit receives it, so they also get the winter fuel payment.

She also suggests extending the payment to low-income older renters who receive housing benefit, as they are more likely to struggle financially and need extra support.

Are you missing out on pension credit?

The government estimates that only 65% of eligible older people claim pension credit.

This means up to 760,000 households could miss out on the winter fuel payment this year.

It’s why the government is encouraging more pensioners to find out if they qualify for pension credit and apply by 21 December.

This is the final date to submit a backdated claim for pension credit, so you can get this year's winter fuel payment.

See if you’re eligible for pension credit using our free online benefits checker.