State penioners being given £200 free cash to replace Winter Fuel Payment

State penioners being given £200 free cash to replace Winter Fuel Payment

by · Birmingham Live

Thousands of pensioners are set to get a £200 bank boost to replace the Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) Winter Fuel Payment. North Lincolnshire Council revealed on Tuesday that 3,000 pensioners who would miss out on the winter fuel payment this year will now be given the £200 helping hand.

The council has looked at how it could help the pensioners most in need following the Government’s decision to scrap the winter fuel payment for the vast majority of pensioners. Further investment is also being provided to pensioners through an air fryer and slow cooker programme that will be available to all residents of pension age.

The money will be given to pensioners who do not qualify for pensioners tax credit but do receive council tax support. There is no need to apply – letters will be sent direct to those eligible that they can exchange for the £200 at any post office.

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Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “We have looked at how best to support the most vulnerable pensioners following the Government’s cruel decision to scrap the winter fuel payments for most pensioners.

“With some pensioners having to decide whether to eat or heat we had to act and are investing £600,000 to help those most in need. In addition, our investment in helping older people with air fryers and slow cookers will help ensure our residents will be able to limit their energy usage whilst also supporting healthy eating.

“The money will be in people’s pockets before Christmas, going someway to help older people who may be struggling with high bills this winter. This is on top of the other support the council provides to pensioners – such as an energy switching service, open access libraries which serve as warm locations, leisure packages, a free bus pass and free car parking.”

The council will use money from the Government’s Housing Support Fund for the £200.