Age UK Westminster Joins National Campaign to Save the Winter Fuel Payment

Age UK Westminster Joins National Campaign to Save the Winter Fuel Payment

650,056-strong petition delivered to No.10 as older people struggle to stay warm

Age UK Westminster has joined the fight against the Government’s changes to the Winter Fuel Payment, standing alongside Age UK at 10 Downing Street to deliver a petition signed by 650,056 people. The petition urges the Government to reconsider its decision, as new research reveals millions of pensioners are struggling to afford heating this winter.

Representing Age UK Westminster at the hand-in was Adele Braithwaite, Cost of Living Adviser, who has seen first-hand the financial hardship many older people in Westminster are facing.

Older People in Crisis as Energy Bills Rise

New polling by Age UK found that:

- 75% of pensioners (9.1 million people) said their homes were colder than they would like them to be 
- 35% of pensioners on incomes of £20,000 or less said their home was too cold most or all of the time 
- 41% have had to cut back on heating or electricity due to rising costs
- 44% are worried about how energy prices will impact their health

These figures reflect the situation in Westminster, where Age UK Westminster has been helping local older people access emergency support, energy grants, and benefits. The charity warns that without urgent Government action, pensioners in the borough will continue to suffer.

Age UK Westminster is urging the Government to:

✅ Reverse the changes to the Winter Fuel Payment and extend eligibility to those receiving pensioner benefits, including Housing Benefit, Council Tax Support, and Attendance Allowance
✅ Introduce an energy social tariff to reduce energy bills for low-income pensioners and disabled people
✅ Improve access to Pension Credit and other financial support to ensure more older people receive the help they are entitled to
✅ Roll out a national Warm Homes Plan, prioritising pensioners living in cold, damp, and mouldy housing

A spokesperson for Age UK Westminster added:

“This is the first winter since the Government cut the Winter Fuel Payment, and we are already seeing the consequences. Pensioners in Westminster and beyond are struggling to keep warm, and it’s a national scandal. The Government must rethink this policy before more older people suffer.”

Need Support? Contact Age UK Westminster

Age UK Westminster is here to help any older person struggling with their bills this winter. If you or someone you know needs support, contact:

📞 Age UK Westminster Advice Line: 020 3004 5610