Don't miss out on the Winter Fuel Payment

Age UK Solihull is encouraging older Solihull residents to check whether they are eligible for Pension Credit before missing out on the Winter Fuel Payment.

It is estimated that over 800,000 people who are entitled to the benefit are not claiming it, meaning they miss out on other benefits and support including help with health costs, help with rent or mortgage payments, council tax discount, carer addition, and disability addition.

Previously, anyone over state pension age would also have received an annual Winter Fuel Payment of between £100-£300, but government changes mean that this will now only paid to those in receipt of Pension Credit.

The deadline for applications for the Winter Fuel Payment is 21 December 2024, so residents need to apply for Pension Credit before then.

Teresa Baxter, Winter Warmth Manager at Age UK Solihull, says, “The changes to the Winter Fuel Allowance entitlement will be a huge blow to many pensioners. We are urging older Solihull residents to check whether they are eligible for Pension Credit or other benefits. Even if you think you’re just over the threshold, there may be factors that mean you are actually eligible. If you’ve had a check in the past it’s worth doing one again.”

We are holding several events where we will offer advice and support with Pension Credit applications, supported by volunteers from National Gas Metering.

The events will take place from 1.30-4.00pm on the Lower Ground Floor, The Core, Homer Road, Solihull B91 3RG, on the followig dates:

Monday 11 November

Tuesday 12 November

Thursday 14 November

Friday 15 November

Monday 25 November

Tuesday 26 November

Wednesday 27 November

Thursday 28 November

Friday 29 November

Monday 2 December

Tuesday 3 December

Wednesday 4 December

Thursday 5 December

Friday 6 December

To book onto one of the events, or if you have any worries about keeping warm this winter, please call our Winter Warmth line on 0121 704 8080 or email winterwarmth@ageuksolihull.org.uk. This service is primarily aimed at older people, those living with disabilities or long-term health conditions, carers, and families with young children.

More about the Winter Warmth campaign