Winter Fuel Payments Eligibility Change: Internal Modelling on Pensioner Poverty Levels
Date: November 29, 2024
Source: UK News and Communications
Summary:
The UK government is reconsidering the eligibility criteria for Winter Fuel Payments (WFPs), with internal modelling suggesting that the change could affect pensioner poverty levels.
Details:
- Winter Fuel Payments are a one-off payment to help elderly people with heating costs during winter.
- Currently, all pensioners over 60 receive WFPs.
- The government is exploring changing the eligibility age to 75.
- Internal modelling indicates that this change could result in increased pensioner poverty.
Analysis:
The change in eligibility criteria is a response to rising energy costs and concerns about pensioner poverty. However, the modelling suggests that the change could have unintended consequences.
- Pensioners over 60 are more likely to live in poverty than younger pensioners.
- The increased cost of living, including energy bills, is disproportionately affecting older people.
- Reducing WFP eligibility would further increase financial hardship for many pensioners.
Reaction:
- Anti-poverty campaigners have expressed concern about the potential impact of the change.
- Age UK, a charity supporting older people, has called on the government to reconsider the proposal.
- The government has stated that the modelling is only internal and subject to change.
Implications:
- The decision on whether to change WFP eligibility will have significant implications for pensioner poverty.
- The government will need to carefully weigh the potential benefits of the change against the risks of increased poverty.
- The issue is likely to be a key focus of debate in the lead-up to the next general election.
Additional Information:
- WFPs are typically paid between November and December.
- The current payment is £600.
- The government has announced that WFPs will be increased by £50 in 2024-25.
Winter Fuel Payments eligibility change – internal modelling on pensioner poverty levels
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