Four out of every five pensioners living below or just above the poverty line are set to lose the winter fuel payment due to planned benefit cuts, as reported by a charity. Age UK’s analysis indicates that 10.7 million UK pensioners will be affected by this change, with nearly one in four (23%) of them living in poverty with a household income of less than 60% of the median or just above the poverty line. Specifically, the charity found that 80% (800,000) of UK pensioners aged 80 and over in poverty or near the poverty line will no longer receive the payment. Additionally, 78% (1.1 million) of pensioners with a disability facing similar circumstances will be impacted.
The study further reveals that 76% (one million) of UK pensioners living alone and in poverty or just above the poverty line will lose their winter fuel payment. Age UK has undertaken its Equality Impact Assessment of the Government’s decision on eligibility for the winter fuel payment and is urging immediate action to prevent a potential crisis for many pensioners this winter. Despite the Government’s own equality analysis estimating 780,000 eligible pensioners losing the payment, Downing Street has indicated that a full impact assessment of the change has not been conducted.
Age UK’s research indicates that no region or country in the UK will have fewer than 74% of pensioners living in poverty or just above the poverty line impacted by the loss of the winter fuel payment. The charity is calling on the Government to maintain the universal payment for this year until the Spending Review in spring. Furthermore, they propose expanding the number of recipients by automatically granting the payment to those receiving certain benefits like Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support.
Caroline Abrahams, the charity director at Age UK, expressed concern over the potential consequences of the Government’s decision, highlighting that millions of older people on low incomes could face hardships as the colder weather approaches. In response, a Government spokesperson stated their commitment to supporting pensioners through various measures, such as the state pension rise and financial support schemes.
For older individuals struggling with bills or living on a low income, Age UK advises contacting their free advice line or visiting their website for information on available financial support. The charity emphasises the importance of ensuring that vulnerable pensioners receive the assistance they need during the challenging winter months ahead.