Mid Suffolk District Council says winter fuel payments cut could have ‘disastrous consequences’

A council has strongly opposed the Government’s decision to cut winter fuel payments, highlighting the critical support these payments provide to the district's pensioners.

On Thursday, Mid Suffolk District Council resolved to write to Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Rt Hon Rachel Reeves MP, urging her to reverse the decision to withdraw winter fuel payments and to make public any impact assessment that had been carried out.

Historically, the payments have helped pensioners living in rural areas to keep up with their outgoings, but now many are having to face the reality that heating their homes is becoming unaffordable.

In a motion set forward by Mid Suffolk’s leader Cllr Andy Mellen, it was reiterated that the payments are crucial to many residents across the district. The motion passed with 29 votes in favor and one abstention.

Cllr Mellen said: “The decision to cut winter fuel payments to some of the most vulnerable members of society could have disastrous consequences and we at Mid Suffolk District Council are adding our voice to the many that are pleading with the Chancellor to reconsider.

“In the meantime, our officers have been working in collaboration with a number of partners, including Citizens’ Advice, to raise awareness of Pension Credit and encourage residents to make a claim, as it can open the door to receiving winter fuel payments.”

Pension Credit offers financial relief to those over pension age struggling with household costs, averaging £3,900 annually, and unlocking benefits such as winter fuel payments, Housing Benefit, and council tax reductions.

Claims can be backdated up to three months, with December 21, 2024 being the deadline to qualify for winter fuel payments.

Mid Suffolk’s Cosy Homes scheme aids eligible residents in upgrading energy efficiency in homes with EPC ratings of D or below, offering up to £5,000 for improvements like insulation.

You can find out more about Pension Credit and Cosy Homes on the Mid Suffolk District Council website.

Cllr Mellen added: “Our Cosy Homes initiative can be a game changer for people that are living in older or less efficient properties.

“If you meet the criteria, you can have a free retrofit assessment of your property to determine what work needs to be done.

“Then, you’ll receive funding of up to £5,000 to cover the installation of the recommended measures and remedial works.

“I strongly encourage eligible residents to take advantage of this unique initiative as it could be the difference when the temperatures plummet.”