As we head into winter, I am deeply concerned about how the government’s recent decision to restrict eligibility for Winter Fuel Payments will affect many of Worcester’s pensioners. Previously, all pensioners could rely on this vital support, but starting this year, only those receiving Pension Credit or specific benefits will be eligible. This change will leave thousands of pensioners in our city without the help they desperately need to stay warm during the colder months.
A Drastic Cut in Support
The numbers are alarming. Across England and Wales, the number of pensioners eligible for Winter Fuel Payments will fall from 11.4 million to just 1.5 million. Here in Worcester, 15,476 pensioners will no longer receive their Winter Fuel Payment, which means 89.4% of the pensioners in our city will be cut off from this crucial support.
What troubles me most is that many of these pensioners are those who have worked hard and saved all their lives, but do not qualify for Pension Credit. The threshold for Pension Credit eligibility is set far too low—£218.15 a week for individuals, and £332.95 for couples—nowhere near enough to live comfortably given the current cost of living.
Fuel Poverty on the Horizon
This change couldn’t come at a worse time. Energy prices are set to rise by 10% in October, and with Winter Fuel Payments being taken away, many pensioners in Worcester are facing the grim reality of fuel poverty. Cold homes are more than just uncomfortable—they can worsen health conditions, increase the risk of illness, and put even more pressure on our already strained NHS.
Raising Awareness of Pension Credit
Another issue that can’t be ignored is the low take-up of Pension Credit. Nationally, only 63% of those eligible actually claim it. That leaves over 880,000 pensioners without essential support they’re entitled to, many of whom are in Worcester. We need to ensure that pensioners know about this benefit and how to apply for it.
Council Takes Cross-Party Action
In response to this crisis, 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. This campaign will include notices on council boards, social media posts, articles in the local press, and targeted letters to those who may be eligible. We’ll also be monitoring the impact of this campaign through the Communities Committee to make sure it reaches the people who need it most.
But raising awareness isn’t enough. For those who don’t qualify for Pension Credit yet still face fuel poverty, we’re exploring other ways to provide support. We will be working closely with local organisations and charities to connect pensioners with the help they need, so they aren’t left struggling through the winter.
A United Front for Worcester’s Pensioners
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. I’m grateful that my colleagues across the political spectrum agreed on the need to act, and we will continue to do everything in our power to help those affected by this change.
As winter approaches, I urge all pensioners and their families to check their eligibility for Pension Credit. We are here to help ensure no one is left behind, and together, we can make sure our pensioners stay warm and safe this winter.
