New calls are being made to pay the Winter Fuel Payment to all pensioners and review eligibility rules next year, according to a report by Age UK. The charity’s research indicates that four out of every five pensioners living below or just above the poverty line will miss out on this year’s Winter Fuel Payment under the planned benefit cut. It is estimated that 10.7 million pensioners will lose the benefit, with nearly one in four of them living in poverty or just above the poverty line.
Age UK’s analysis reveals that 80% of pensioners aged 80 and over living in poverty or just above the poverty line will no longer receive the payment, along with 78% of pensioners with a disability in similar circumstances. Additionally, 76% of pensioners who live alone will no longer receive the payment of up to £300. The charity has called for the UK Government to issue the payments to all pensioners this winter until the Spending Review in the Spring.
The government is urged to bring in measures to expand the numbers of those who will still receive the payment by automatically giving it to those receiving Housing Benefit, Council Tax Support, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Attendance Allowance, and Carers Allowance. The Department for Work and Pensions indicated that more than two-thirds of those with a disability and 83% of those aged 80 or over would miss out on the Winter Fuel Payment due to the eligibility rule change.
The Scottish First Minister, John Swinney, has requested the UK Government to reverse its decision to introduce means-testing for the winter fuel payment, stating that it will have a damaging impact. The Scottish Parliament has voted in favour of this motion from the First Minister, highlighting that means-testing alongside the rise in the energy price cap will affect older Scots and vulnerable households. Mr. Swinney has written to councils seeking assistance in encouraging more older people to claim Pension Credit, which would grant passported access to Winter Fuel Payments.
According to a government spokesperson, the UK Government remains committed to supporting pensioners, with millions expected to see their state pension rise by up to £1,700 this parliament through the commitment to the Triple Lock system. Additionally, over a million pensioners will still receive the Winter Fuel Payment, and efforts to boost Pension Credit uptake have seen a 152% increase in claims. The spokesperson also mentioned the Warm Home Discount and Household Support Fund as additional measures to help with energy bills and other costs.
In conclusion, Age UK’s call to pay the Winter Fuel Payment to all pensioners and review eligibility rules comes as a response to concerns regarding the potential impact of the planned benefit cut on millions of older people. The charity’s research highlights the significant number of pensioners who could face financial challenges as the winter approaches, urging the government to take action to protect those on low and modest incomes.