Pensioners could receive “direct financial help” with £25 paid into their bank account over the coming weeks. Older Britons are also encouraged to investigate any unclaimed benefits available to them.
The payment scheme was highlighted when Labour leaders were questioned in Parliament about the possibility of expanding the eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment. Amendments to the policy now require recipients to be on certain means-tested benefits like Pension Credit, as well as being of state pension age, to qualify for this winter’s payment, which amounts to either £200 or £300.
This is unlike previous years, when most people of state pension age received the payments. In response to the question, Work and Pensions minister Torsten Bell pointed out there are various forms of aid available to pensioners including the Cold Weather Payment.
He said these £25 payments offer “direct financial help” to low-income families when temperatures plummet below zero degrees celsius for seven consecutive days, or are predicted to do so. The programme runs until the end of March, so chilly spells over the next few weeks could trigger the payments, which depend on your local weather station’s forecasts.
The payments have already been activated for hundreds of areas in recent weeks. If you’re receiving Pension Credit or are on Universal Credit, you might be entitled to these Cold Weather Payments.
Mr Bell also highlighted the Warm Home Discount scheme, which offers a one-time £150 reduction on electricity bills for those whose supplier participates in the programme. Eligibility extends to individuals receiving the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit and others on a low income, with Mr Bell noting that over one million pensioners qualify for this aid during this winter season.
Regarding potential changes to the Winter Fuel Payment eligibility, Mr Bell confirmed “there are no plans to change the eligibility criteria”. He also emphasised the importance for pensioners to verify if they’re entitled to Pension Credit, as it’s estimated that hundreds of thousands might be missing out on this benefit.
Mr Bell stated: “We want to ensure as many people as possible have access to this support and urge pensioners to check their eligibility. Pension Credit will passport them to receive Winter Fuel Payments in future, alongside other benefits – including help with rent, council tax, fuel bills and a free TV licence for those over 75. That’s why Government is taking significant steps to raise awareness and maximise take-up.”
Additionally, Mr Bell encouraged pensioners with low incomes or those struggling to pay their bills to reach out to their local council for further assistance. Local councils offer various cost-of-living support options depending on the region, such as food vouchers or energy bill aid, through the Household Support Fund in England.
This fund will be operational until April 2025. You can find out your local council using this Government tool.