Millions of pensioners are set to lose their winter fuel allowance following a recent parliamentary decision that failed to block the cuts. The move, which was aimed at preventing all but the UK’s poorest pensioners from receiving the payment of up to £300, is expected to reduce the number of recipients from 11.4 million to 1.5 million.
In a significant blow for the pensioners, a Tory attempt to halt the measure was defeated by a majority of 120, with 52 Labour MPs not participating in the vote, including seven ministers. The cut means that starting this winter, only those claiming pension credit or other means-tested benefits will receive assistance with their fuel bills. This is a change from the previous system where the allowance was available to all individuals over the age of 66.
The Labour administration estimates that this adjustment will save around £1.4 billion this year. The decision to implement the cut was defended by cabinet minister Jonathan Reynolds, who stated that the UK Government had no alternative but to make the change. Despite concerns raised regarding the potential impact on vulnerable pensioners, the government remains firm in its decision.
The announcement of this change, made by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in July as part of efforts to address a significant budget shortfall, has faced opposition from various quarters. An online petition by Age UK garnered nearly half a million signatures, urging the government to reconsider its stance. The charity’s campaign, ‘Save the Winter Fuel Payment for struggling pensioners,’ highlights the detrimental effects this cut may have on older individuals who rely on the additional financial support during the colder months.
To raise awareness and ensure more eligible individuals receive the benefit, the UK government has launched the ‘Pension Credit Week of Action.’ This initiative aims to prompt older people to check their eligibility for Pension Credit, which would, in turn, grant them access to winter fuel payments.
The decision to reduce winter fuel payments has sparked a debate and drawn attention to the challenges faced by vulnerable pensioners in the UK. As the winter approaches, the impact of this change on those affected remains a topic of concern and discussion within the community.