As energy costs rise, charities are helping pensioners access financial support to stay warm this winter, while the government highlights ongoing measures to assist older people.
Pensioners Urged to Access Financial Support as Energy Costs Rise This Winter
By Chourouk Derkaoui
Published on 27 November 2024 10:42
Pensioners are facing growing challenges with rising energy costs, as highlighted by new research from Age UK. The Winter Fuel Payment has become critical in helping pensioners manage these costs, with three-quarters of them using the payment last year to cover essential expenses like heating, hot water, and household appliances
However, the payment is now means-tested, raising concerns about increased financial strain on vulnerable older adults this winter.
The Impact of Rising Fuel Costs on Pensioners' Daily Lives
The survey reveals that many pensioners face difficult choices regarding basic needs like heating, food, and hygiene, particularly as fuel costs rise.
A survey by Age UK revealed the following impacts:
| Key Findings | Percentage | Number of Pensioners Affected |
|---|---|---|
| Used the Winter Fuel Payment for fuel-related costs | 77% | 9.2 million |
| Expect to reduce heating use or hours this winter | 55% | 6.6 million |
| Poorest pensioners reducing heating use | 63% | N/A |
| Will cut back on baths or showers | 25% | 3 million |
| Plan to reduce hot meals | 10% | 1.2 million |
| Poorest pensioners reducing hot meals | 15% | N/A |
Charity Concerns Prompt Calls for Action
Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, stressed the importance of the Winter Fuel Payment in alleviating fuel-related anxieties:
The great majority of older people spent their Winter Fuel Payment on energy-related costs last year. Rising energy bills have forced even those who expected financial stability in retirement to tighten their belts, while for others, energy costs have become a source of real fear.
Although, Abrahams called on the government to reverse the means-testing policy, warning that it is causing hardship, undermining health, and worsening anxiety among pensioners.
Regional Support and Campaigns
- Scotland: Labour has pledged to reinstate the Winter Fuel Payment as a universal entitlement if elected in 2026.
- Northern Ireland: Pensioners who lose the payment this winter will receive an additional £100 to help with energy bills.
Additionally, Independent Age, a charity focused on alleviating financial hardship among older people, has launched a campaign to encourage Pension Credit applications. Celebrity advocates like Brian Cox and Jane Asher are urging pensioners to apply for this benefit, which can top up weekly income and unlock further financial support.
Overcoming Barriers to Applying
Despite the benefits of Pension Credit, some pensioners hesitate to apply. Research from Royal London found:
- 1 in 6 pensioners feel embarrassed to tell family members about applying for Pension Credit.
- Among those who know they qualify, 11% have not applied, and only 2% intend to apply in time for the Winter Fuel Payment.
Royal London emphasizes that there is no shame in accepting support and encourages families and friends to help spread awareness.
How to Access Support
Pension Credit not only boosts weekly income to a minimum of £218.15 for singles or £332.95 for couples but also unlocks additional benefits, including:
- Help with heating costs, housing, and council tax.
- Free TV licences for those over 75.
- Access to the Warm Home Discount.
Ways to Apply:
- Call the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234.
- Apply online or by post.
- Use Age UK’s free benefits calculator for a private assessment of eligibility.
Supporting Pensioners Amid Rising Energy Costs
Charities like Age UK and Independent Age also offer guidance and welfare checks to help older people access the support they need.
We are committed to supporting pensioners, with millions set to see their state pension rise by up to £1,900 this parliament through our triple lock commitment. Over a million pensioners will still receive the Winter Fuel Payment, and our drive to boost Pension Credit take-up has already seen a 152% increase in claims.
While additional measures like the Household Support Fund and the Warm Home Discount aim to provide relief, charities warn these efforts may not go far enough to meet the needs of older people this winter.