Concerns rise for pensioners this winter

There is concern in the community that many older people in Frome may be left ‘cold and hungry’ this winter due to the government’s changes to who is eligible to receive the winter fuel payment.  

All people of pension age were eligible to receive a winter fuel payment of up to £300, which helps older people with their heating bills.   

However, earlier this year, the newly elected Labour government said that the payment would now only be made to those on low incomes and receiving certain benefits.  

Fair Frome’s senior coordinator, Lenka Grimes, said, “Many people, both from organisations and agencies we work with and service users, are talking about the changes to winter fuel payments and they are worried. We have actually seen an increase in older people accessing the food bank this year already, with cuts to statutory services. I’m concerned many will fall through the cracks and be left cold and hungry.”  

Local MP Anna Sabine has been urging the government to protect pensioners against the cuts. She said, “I am very concerned about the potential effect these cuts could have on the oldest and most vulnerable in our community. As we move towards the winter months, I urge the government to move to protect those most in need.”    

Last year, pensioners over 80 in Frome and East Somerset received £1,332,900 in support, with £3,211,700 given out to all pensioners in the constituency.  

Citizens Advice Somerset wants to make pensioners aware that they can claim Pension Credit, which will automatically give them eligibility for the winter fuel payment.  

Publicity volunteer for Citizens Advice Somerset, John Chettoe, said, “Figures show that Pension Credit is one of the most underclaimed benefits, with nearly 900,000 households across the country that have not yet claimed.  

“If you have reached state pension age and are on a low weekly income, below £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple, you should check to see if you are eligible to apply for Pension Credit. You can still apply, though, even if your income is higher due to receiving a severe disability or carer’s addition.  

“A successful application for Pension Credit will also give you automatic eligibility for the winter fuel payment, a welcome bonus with fuel prices set to increase by 10% as we move towards winter again. Even if you don’t get much Pension Credit it could still be worth applying as you may also be able to eligible for Council Tax reduction and money off your water bill.  

“The deadline for you to apply for Pension Credit and still receive the winter fuel payment is Saturday 21st December if your application is successful.” 

A letter is due to be sent this month to those who are eligible to receive the winter fuel payment. Most people are paid in November or December.

Drop-in session

Fair Frome, Prosper Frome, The Bridge Café and the Frome branch of Health Connections Mendip, supported by Frome Town Council, are hosting a drop-in session at Frome Town Hall on Tuesday 22nd October, between 10am and 12pm, to encourage people to check if they are eligible for unclaimed pension credit.

The session is open to anyone who needs support personally and those who are supporting a friend or relative.

Anne Hills of Prosper Frome said “We often see older people at our regular drop-in sessions, and we know that our colleagues at Citizen’s Advice have seen an increase in enquiries from people of retirement age too. It may turn out that you don’t qualify for pension credit, but you lose nothing by checking! Independent Age provide a range of very useful resources and a telephone helpline, so there are various ways you can access support in the way that suits you, including talking to someone in person. With the December deadline for applying fast approaching, let’s spread the word and try to ensure a fairer deal for people in Frome.”