A Fair Deal on Winter Fuel Allowance

Around 6,000 of those aged over 80 in Rochdale Borough are at risk of losing their Winter Fuel Payments due to the government’s cuts, the latest official statistics released yesterday (24th September) have revealed.

Rochdale Liberal Democrats, have called on the new government to “change course” in the face of these new statistics saying that ministers must “protect vulnerable pensioners” with thousands at risk of having to choose between heating and eating this winter.

All those aged over 80 were previously entitled to £300 each to help with their energy bills to stay warm during the winter months. but analysis of the new data shows that in Rochdale Borough, around 6,000 pensioners aged over 80 are not in receipt of pension credit and will lose their Winter Fuel Payment they were previously entitled to, unless they receive other benefits. 

In total, last year those aged over 80 in Rochdale Borough received £2 million in support with £5.5 million given out to all pensioners in the borough. This figure will drastically fall this winter following the withdrawal of support by the Labour government, with over 26,000 pensioners in Rochdale Borough who do not receive pension credit at risk of losing support due to the government’s cuts.

This cut comes at a time when the energy companies are increasing the average household bills by £150.00, a total increase of up to £450.00 per household. 

Age UK has previously said that 2.5 million pensioners will “be in serious trouble” this winter due to the cutting of the payments. Rochdale’s Lib Dems called on the government to “reverse these proposals and protect vulnerable pensioners” this winter.