Winter Fuel Payments Cut Affects Pensioners

The UK government has restricted Winter Fuel Payments to pensioners receiving Pension Credit, resulting in an estimated 10 million losing their support this winter. Pensioners must apply for Pension Credit by the December 21 deadline to qualify for these payments, with nearly half of claims approved this year. However, a backlog of around 150,000 claims has developed, raising concerns that many may miss out due to processing delays. Critics, including Kemi Badenoch, argue that the cuts could lead to increased hardship and even fatalities among vulnerable pensioners. The government has initiated efforts to encourage applications for Pension Credit amidst the backlash, while Labour leaders defend the policy as a necessary response to a £22 billion fiscal deficit. Local councils are providing alternative support, such as Dudley Council offering £125 supermarket cards to those excluded from the Winter Fuel Payments.