Commenting on the UK Government’s Equality Analysis around Winter Fuel Payment, Joanna Elson CBE, Chief Executive of Independent Age, said:
“Since the announcement that the Winter Fuel Payment will be means-tested, we have been calling on the UK Government to delay because it is clear there is simply not enough time to get the support to older people who desperately need it.
“Now, this equality analysis confirms that, even with their intention to increase Pension Credit take up, the UK Government only expect the dial to shift by 5%. This means that according to their own figures, 780,000 eligible older people on a low income will still have vital financial support taken away this winter.
“More attention also needs to be given to older people who are just above the eligibility for Pension Credit. We are really concerned about this group who tell us they do not have enough money to cover their bills, and that they will have to make dangerous sacrifices this winter.
“There is still time for the Chancellor to reconsider this change to the Winter Fuel Payment. Failing this, the UK Government needs to work with charities like us at Independent Age ahead of the Budget to establish what additional support older people on a low income need.
“In the longer term there must be financial security for all of us as we age. We urge the UK Government to lead a review where all major parties come together and agree on what an adequate income in older age is, then ensure that everybody receives it so that no one lives in poverty in later life.”