£300 Winter Fuel Payment reinstated for one million pensioners after Labour cut

A UNIVERSAL Winter Fuel Payment will be REINSTATED for a million pensioners amid a growing fury and backlash over the cut from the new Labour Party government. The SNP Government will reinstate a Winter Fuel Payment for nearly one million Scots.

It will confirm today (Thursday November 28) it will be reversing Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ cut. Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville will announce the move at Holyrood today in a bid to outflank the Labour Party government.

It is understood all older Scots will be entitled to a payment, but not every recipient will receive the same amount as some pensioners are wealthy. The first minister said: “There are possible steps that could be taken within Scotland to ameliorate the difficulties that are faced by pensioners living in a colder climate without winter fuel payments.

READ MORE State pensioners to get free £150 handout on TOP of Winter Fuel Payment

"That will obviously be the subject of a statement to Parliament.” He added: “What I am certain of is that the Government I lead must be a Government that stands and offers support to those who face challenges in our society, stands alongside those who are able to take forward opportunities, and that’s exactly what will govern and dictate our approach on all the issues that we face.”

Winter Fuel Payment is a tax-free payment of either £200 or £300. It helps people of pension age who receive certain qualifying benefits pay their heating bills. It’s paid by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). In 2024, Pension Age Winter Heating Payment will be paid by DWP, the Scottish government has said.

If you’re eligible, you should get your payment automatically. DWP will send you a letter to tell you about your payment. Social Security Scotland will not be involved in making your payment. The new system will be up and running by next year, it is hoped.