Furious Martin Lewis Calls for Urgent Action to Help Pensioners on Less Than £11,400 Get Winter Fuel Payments
Consumer champion Martin Lewis made a fiery return to Good Morning Britain (GMB) for his first ‘Wallet Wednesday’ of the Autumn. Pulling no punches, he challenged Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy on the UK Government’s Pension Credit take-up strategy. This issue is crucial for millions of people over State Pension age, as a successful claim for the means-tested benefit will also grant access to this year’s Winter Fuel Payment.
Lewis informed ITV viewers about how he and other campaigners, such as Age UK and Citizen’s Advice, have been urging the UK Government to reconsider the policy change that will result in over 10 million pensioners missing out on the annual heating bill support, valued between £100 and £300. He highlighted that, under the current strategy, it would take the UK Government four years to get 780,000 entitled but unclaimed pensioners on Pension Credit.
During a heated interview with Ms. Nandy, co-presenter Susanna Reid intervened to caution Lewis for his language. Lewis pointed out the challenges in reaching the poorest pensioners, particularly those with an income below £11,400. He questioned why individual letters were not being sent to them or why the benefit was not being linked to Attendance Allowance and Housing Benefit.
Ms. Nandy explained that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) had seen a significant increase of 115% in new Pension Credit claims since the rule change was announced. She mentioned an estimated 40,000 claims being submitted each month. However, Lewis continued to challenge the government’s approach, highlighting that many pensioners might not be reached this year, especially those with dementia.
Ms. Nandy defended the government’s efforts, stating that they were working with various groups to ensure the most vulnerable were reached. She highlighted the support being provided by local councils, such as sending letters to potential eligible individuals and offering door-to-door assistance. The conversation delved into the logistics of reaching these pensioners and ensuring they receive the financial assistance they are entitled to.
It was revealed that the DWP would be sending letters to all 12.7 million State Pensioners in Great Britain, explaining the changes to Winter Fuel Payments and confirming their eligibility status. The conversation concluded with Lewis emphasising the importance of addressing the challenges faced by the most vulnerable pensioners and ensuring they receive the support they need.
The Martin Lewis Money Show Live is set to return to ITV/STV on October 30, the day before the Labour Government presents the Autumn Budget. Stay updated on the latest news regarding Money by joining the conversation on the Money Saving Scotland Facebook group and signing up for the Record Money newsletter. Follow Record Money on X (formerly Twitter) @Recordmoney_ for regular updates throughout the day or receive money news alerts on your phone by joining the Daily Record Money WhatsApp community.