Over 21,000 pensioners in North West Norfolk set to lose Winter Fuel Payments
James Wild MP for North West Norfolk has urged the new Labour government to drop plans announced by the Chancellor to stop Winter Fuel Payments for any pensioner not on Pension Credit or other means-tested benefits.
New figures from Age UK estimate that 21,200 pensioners in North West Norfolk are set to lose Winter Fuel Payments worth up to £300 which are designed to help households that include someone over State Pension age cover their heating costs in winter.
Government figures show 24,157 pensioners received Winter Fuel Payments in 2023 but just 2,570 households that currently receive Pension Credit in North West Norfolk will continue to do so. That means 21,587 people could lose the extra help with energy bills.
It is estimated that a further 1,559 households are eligible for Pension Credit but have not yet applied. James is therefore encouraging people to check whether they, a family member, or friend could qualify for Pension Credit and keep their Winter Fuel Payment.
Pension Credit is a top up benefit for the most vulnerable pensioners worth an average of £3,500 a year. As well as a cash top up to the State Pension, it can help pensioners access other support such as help with housing costs, council tax, and a free over-75s TV licence. Pension Credit can be claimed at www.gov.uk/pension-credit or by calling the Freephone Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.
Commenting James said:
“Labour’s plans - which they didn’t mention during the election campaign - will hit thousands of vulnerable pensioners who will lose vital payments to help heat their homes. With energy bills set to rise again, this is the wrong decision and the government should rethink its damaging action that is taking much needed support away.”
Age UK estimate that 35% of older people in North West Norfolk live with a disability and 43% with a long-term health condition, many of whom have higher than average energy bills.
