‘Older people will suffer this winter,’ charities warn

Charities and campaigners are concerned many older people will suffer this winter after having their winter fuel payments taken away.

Up to 1.2 million pensioners on low incomes are at risk of missing out on vital financial support because they’ll only get the fuel payment now if they receive pension credit or other certain benefits.

It’s why the groups have penned an open letter to the government, urging for the changes to be reviewed as many of those entitled to pension credit don’t claim it and, as a result, are facing a “cold and dangerous” winter.

Don’t leave us out in the cold

Two million pensioners are struggling to make ends meet in the UK – and at least a further one million are making difficult financial decisions. Many are living in cold and damp conditions because they’re unable to heat their homes or use hot water.

It’s a reality of trying to cut costs wherever possible, which often affects people’s physical and mental health. Cutting older people’s income when they’re already struggling will put added stress on an already-stretched NHS and social care system.

And many older people who are just above the pension credit threshold will also struggle without enough money to live on.

Increase pension credit take-up

The letter’s authors have offered to work with the government so older people on low incomes get the support with money they need:

They want to:

• make sure everyone who is entitled to pension credit gets it
• widen the scope for people to claim benefits
• ensure people have enough money later in life to avoid falling in difficulty

The government is urging people to check if they’re eligible for pension credit as part of a new drive and say they’re “determined” to support low-income pensioners.

Pension credit and other support

Almost 40% of those eligible for pension credit don’t currently get it, so you could be missing out.

You can check if you’re entitled to pension credit or other support with our online benefits checker.

If you’re eligible, you’ll get the winter fuel payment and you might be able to get extra support like:

• housing benefit if you rent, or help with your mortgage payments if you own your home
• a free TV licence if you’re over 75
• help with help with NHS dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for hospital appointments