A new survey reveals many pensioners are skipping meals and feeling cold due to recent changes in winter fuel payments.
London: Thousands of pensioners are facing tough times this winter. Many are skipping meals and cutting back on essentials. A recent survey shows they feel colder at home due to changes in winter fuel payments.
According to Unite, a trade union, over two-thirds of retired members have turned down the heating. A third are taking fewer baths and showers. The survey included around 6,000 retirees.
It found that 63% of respondents felt colder this winter than in previous years. Alarmingly, 16% reported cutting back on meals. Unite representatives say these results highlight the negative impact of Labour’s changes to the cold weather benefit.
Members of Unite are taking action. They dropped a banner from Westminster Bridge, urging the government to reverse the cuts. They want the winter fuel payment reinstated for millions of pensioners.
About 9.4 million pensioners are estimated to have lost this payment due to the changes. Unite’s general secretary, Sharon Graham, emphasized the real-life effects of this cut. She believes retirees deserve to live with dignity after years of work.
In July, Rachel Reeves announced these changes as part of cost-cutting measures. Labour aims to address a £22 billion gap in public finances, which they claim was hidden by the previous government.
Now, the winter fuel payment is only available to those receiving pension credit. This means many pensioners may miss out, even if they need help. Research from Age UK suggests around 2 million people could be affected.
Unite has been vocal against these changes. They sought a judicial review in November to challenge the policy. Recently, reports revealed that many pensioners are still waiting for payments until spring.
The average wait for new claims has grown to about 100 days. The Department for Work and Pensions is struggling with high demand.
A government spokesperson stated they don’t want anyone to suffer this winter. They mentioned continuing support through the Warm Home Discount and the Household Support Fund.
They also highlighted that millions of pensioners will see their state pension rise significantly. Additionally, a Winter 2024 Commitment promises £500 million in support for billpayers this winter.
