Worcester Lib Dems Karen Holmes led a cross party motion recently to highlight the damage that could be caused after the government announced plans to the restrict eligibility for winter Fuel Payments.
In the motion presented to the council on Tuesday 17th September, Karen raised the point that around 89.4% of pensioners living in the Worcester area would lose the benefit. That equates to nearly 15,000 pensioners.
The motion states that the threshold for the cut off is too low and has called on the council to do more to promote awareness of other payments pensioners can receive such as Pension credits.
In her blog, Karen said about Pension Credits ‘Nationally, only 63% of those eligible actually claim it…many of whom are in Worcester. We need to ensure that pensioners know about this benefit and how to apply for it.’
I’m proud to have led a cross-party effort in Worcester City Council. Together, we passed a motion unanimously, committing to an urgent awareness campaign to ensure that every eligible pensioner in Worcester knows how to claim Pension Credit
I proposed this motion because I believe it is vital that we stand up for Worcester’s pensioners. The government’s decision to remove Winter Fuel Payments from so many pensioners is deeply concerning. It’s a short-sighted move that will have a devastating impact on some of the most vulnerable people in our community.’
To see more go to Karens Blog HERE.
See the BBC Story HERE
