The recent announcement by Chancellor Rachel Reeves to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment has led to a significant surge in pension credit applications, doubling in five weeks from 17,900 to 38,500. However, experts caution that it could take up to four years for all eligible pensioners to apply, with an estimated 880,000 currently missing out. This policy change, which is projected to save the government £1.4 billion, has raised concerns about the welfare of pensioners, with some reports predicting that about 4,000 could die as a result of losing the benefit. Charities warn that the means-testing could lead to a 60% drop in donations to help vulnerable older adults stay warm this winter. The government defends the decision as a necessary measure given the financial situation, while critics label it a significant attack on the elderly. The issue is set to be debated in Parliament, with potential dissent from Labour MPs who previously opposed similar cuts under the Conservative government.