Hundreds of thousands of people have signed Age UK’s online petition calling on the UK Government to reverse the new rule. An online petition created by Age UK is urging the UK Government to reverse the decision to make Winter Fuel Payments means-tested. The charity launched the campaign shortly after Chancellor Rachel Reeves made the announcement at the end of last month and have received over 412,000 signatures of support, so far.
Age UK’s ‘Save the Winter Fuel Payment for struggling pensioners’ petition warns the eligibility change will impact millions of older people who rely on the extra financial support to help cover the costs of higher bills during the winter months. An estimated 10 million pensioners will miss out on seasonal heating bill help unless they are in receipt of an income-related benefit such as Pension Credit. In its latest plea for support, the charity said: “The Winter Fuel Payment will be the difference between eating and heating for many struggling pensioners this winter.
The Government must save this vital payment.” The Winter Fuel Payment is worth between £100 and £300, however for the past two years it has been worth a lot more - up to £600 - due to the addition of the Pensioner Cost of Living Payment. It’s important to be aware that only people aged over 80 receive the £300 Winter Fuel Payment, most pensioner households receive £200.
Any official response to the petition is not expected until after the parliamentary summer reces.