Thousands of pensioners who were due to miss out on Winter Fuel Payments because of cuts from central Government will be eligible for a new grant being introduced by the council.
Mayor Lutfur Rahman announced a Winter Emergency Fund at a Cabinet meeting last night (Wednesday) to provide financial support for those who can no longer receive the Winter Fuel Payment.
The scheme will provide £175 to those eligible in the coming months, part of a £1m package of support, which includes funds from the government’s Household Support Fund (HSF).
National government has made the Winter Fuel Allowance means tested, which will result in only 1.5 million people being eligible - down from 11.4 million when the payment was available to anyone over the age of 66 regardless of financial situation.
The council will also work to increase uptake among the estimated 4,500 residents in the borough who are eligible for Pension Credit but are not claiming.
These residents have until 21 December to sign up for Pension Credit – which will make them eligible for both a £200-£300 Winter Fuel Payment from central government, and could boost their annual income on an ongoing basis.
If you have reached state pension age and your income is less than £218.15 per week (or £332.95 for couples), you may be eligible for Pension Credit. The LBTH Outreach Team can support claims through our website.
Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets, Lutfur Rahman, said:
“Making the Winter Fuel payment means-tested will have a detrimental effect on pensioners who are already facing the rising costs of energy bills.
“This creates a risk that pensioners will not turn their heating on for fear of not being able to pay the bills, which is wrong.
“This is why we are stepping in and providing a £175 safety net for those who will be missing out.”
Cllr Saied Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Resources and the Cost of Living added:
“I would firstly encourage all those who are over the age of 66 to claim Pension Credit as it may give you extra income to which you could be entitled, and it can open doors to other benefits such as support with housing costs, Council Tax and heating bills.
“Our popular Warm Hubs will also return this winter to provide a safe space for residents to have a hot drink and access support, or just read a book and socialise.”
Last winter staff at our six warm hubs served up thousands of cups of tea, coffee, and healthy snacks to tackle fuel poverty and social isolation.
There are an estimated 109,898 missed benefits claims in Tower Hamlets totalling over £110million in unclaimed support.
Ensure you are claiming your possible entitlement for Healthy Start, Free School Meals, Child Benefit, free childcare, and more by taking 10 minutes to check your eligibility using our Benefits Calculator at www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/costofliving
Posted on Thursday 17th October 2024