Council says winter fuel payments cut could have ‘disastrous consequences’

At its full council meeting on Thursday, 21 November, the council resolved to write to Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Rt Hon Rachel Reeves MP, asking her to reverse the decision to withdraw winter fuel payments and to make public any impact assessment that had been carried out.

In a motion set forward by Mid Suffolk’s leader Cllr Andy Mellen, it was reiterated that the payments are crucial to many of the district’s residents – especially with the district being largely rural.

The main concern for pensioners living in rural areas is that many will not be on mains gas and are, therefore, exposed to extra costs. Historically, the winter fuel payments have helped these residents to keep up with their outgoings, but now many are having to face the reality that heating their homes is becoming unaffordable.

Cllr Mellen said:

“The decision to cut winter fuel payments to some of the most vulnerable members of society could have disastrous consequences and we at Mid Suffolk District Council are adding our voice to the many that are pleading with the Chancellor to reconsider.

“In the meantime, our officers have been working in collaboration with a number of partners, including Citizens’ Advice, to raise awareness of Pension Credit and encourage residents to make a claim, as it can open the door to receiving winter fuel payments.”

Pension Credit is open to those over pension age who find it difficult to manage their household costs. It is worth (on average) £3,900 per year and unlocks additional support, including winter fuel payments, full Housing Benefit, council tax reduction and more. 

Additionally, Pension Credit claims can be backdated by up to three months, as long as there is entitlement during that time. This means that the latest date to qualify and apply for a winter fuel payment is 21 December, 2024.

Another way that residents in Mid Suffolk can receive support is through the council’s ‘Cosy Homes’ scheme, which helps eligible applicants improve the energy efficiency of their home and subsequently save on their bills. 

The scheme has been designed to raise the EPC rating of properties that currently have a grade of D or below up to a C, using measures such as loft insulation, cavity wall insulation or mechanical ventilation to do so.

Cllr Mellen added:

“Our Cosy Homes initiative can be a game changer for people that are living in older or less efficient properties.

“If you meet the criteria, you can have a free retrofit assessment of your property to determine what work needs to be done. Then, you’ll receive funding of up to £5,000 to cover the installation of the recommended measures and remedial works.

“I strongly encourage eligible residents to take advantage of this unique initiative as it could be the difference when the temperatures plummet.”

Find out more about Pension Credit and Cosy Homes on the Mid Suffolk District Council website.