Bradford’s Older People Facing Their Toughest Winter Yet
Published on 06 November 2024 10:44 AM
Bradford’s Older People in Crisis as Winter Fuel Costs Rise and Support is Cut
This winter, older people in Bradford are facing unprecedented challenges as the cost of heating homes continues to rise and thousands lose access to the Winter Fuel Payment. As Age UK Bradford District points out, these people are not strangers—they are parents, grandparents, friends, and neighbours—vulnerable members of our community who are being hit hardest by the cost-of-living crisis.
Mark Rounding, CEO of Age UK Bradford District, explains: “Year on year it’s getting tougher for older people to live comfortably, and this year sees a drastic change for many older people in Bradford District. We see a huge uptake in our services each year and we are bracing ourselves for a busy winter period, especially since many older people will be losing their Winter Fuel Payment”.
With energy prices increasing again, many elderly people in Bradford are being forced to choose between heating their homes and buying food. These harsh decisions put older residents at a greater risk of cold-related illnesses, including heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory problems. As temperatures drop, the reality for many is stark: surviving the winter could become a matter of life and death.
To make matters worse, significant cuts to the Winter Fuel Payment have left thousands of older people without a financial safety net. Many who had come to rely on this essential support to heat their homes will now be left in the cold. The knock-on effects on their health, well-being, and quality of life could be devastating.
Age UK Bradford District is stepping up its efforts to help as many older people as possible through this crisis, but they need help. The demand for their services has skyrocketed, and they simply cannot meet the growing needs without increased support from the local community. The charity has already experienced a 227% increase in the number of older people that they are helping to access Pension Credit and are calling on local businesses, community groups, and individuals to come together and raise vital funds so they can provide support to those most at risk.
The people facing this crisis are not just statistics—they are the same people who have contributed to our community throughout their lives. They are family, friends, and neighbours, and they need help now more than ever. Every contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference.
How to Donate
or text
YOUR to 70450 to donate £10
YOUR to 70460 to donate £5
YOUR to 70470 to donate £3
Donations can also be made directly at the charity’s 6 Community Hubs throughout the district.
Together, we can make sure no older person in Bradford has to face winter without the help that they so desperately need.