Pensioners who missed out on Winter Fuel Payments this year are set to receive financial aid of up to £300 from local councils. The move follows the Government’s decision to means-test the payment, leaving many low-income pensioners without support during the winter months.
This year, the Winter Fuel Payment, which was previously available to all pensioners, was means-tested for the first time. As a result, approximately two million pensioners who are on very low incomes were excluded from receiving the payment.
Many of those left behind will now be able to access support through local councils, who are stepping in with their own emergency funds.
Financial Aid to the Most Vulnerable
Several local authorities have announced that they will offer financial assistance to pensioners who missed out on the Winter Fuel Payment, with some councils providing payments between £200 and £300.
According to Age UK Solihull’s Hilary Tomlinson, the expansion of support criteria through the Household Support Fund is aimed at alleviating the financial strain on vulnerable pensioners, particularly as living costs continue to rise.
In Solihull, pensioners can apply for assistance through the Household Support Fund, which provides payments to low-income households in need. This initiative is designed to help pensioners struggling with essential bills, such as heating and food costs, particularly those on fixed incomes.
Tomlinson urged residents to get in touch with the council for potential support if they are struggling financially. Other councils are offering similar schemes to help residents who missed out on Government payments.
Local councils are not only focusing on direct financial support but are also offering aid for energy and water debts. Low-income adults, including pensioners, are encouraged to apply for further assistance under the cost of living scheme, which offers payments to those with household incomes below £31,000 and savings under £10,000.
How Local Councils Are Helping
The local council-led initiatives come after the Government’s decision to introduce a means-testing system for Winter Fuel Payments, which was previously provided to all pensioners regardless of income. The new system, introduced this year, automatically excluded millions of lower-income pensioners from receiving the £300 payment.
The means-tested criteria have left pensioners feeling the financial squeeze, particularly as many have fixed incomes and rely on such payments to help cover essential winter costs.
Some pensioners may not be aware of the new support schemes available through local councils. Thus, authorities are urging those who were excluded from the Winter Fuel Payment to check their eligibility for alternative financial help.
