Leader of Knowsley Council, Cllr Graham Morgan, has called on the Government to rethink the threshold at which the Winter Fuel Allowance will no longer be paid to pensioners.
Putting forward a notice of motion at Wednesday’s Council meeting, Cllr Morgan also urged pensioners to ensure they aren’t missing out on Pension Credit that they might be entitled to, which will also help with the cost of heating their homes over winter.
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Morgan welcomed the announcement by the new Government that the Household Support Fund would continue, with Knowsley receiving £1.86m over the next six months.
Cllr Morgan said: “This is great news for the thousands of residents who we are able to continue to support with this funding.
“I also welcome the maintaining of the triple lock on pensions, and the continuing provision of the Warm Homes plan which is a sustainable way of keeping down domestic fuel bills.”
But he acknowledged that the removal of winter fuel allowance may leave some pensioners struggling, and called on the Government to raise the threshold so that more pensioners will still be eligible for the support.
And he told the meeting that the Council and local MPs were working hard to ensure that as many local people as possible get the help and support they need to help them heat their homes this winter – urging older residents to ensure they apply for Pension Credit if they may be eligible.
What is Pension Credit and how is it related to the Winter Fuel Allowance?
Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income.
Latest figures show that up to 880,000 households across the UK may be missing out on support worth on average over £3,900 a year because they have not applied for Pension Credit.
Pension Credit also opens doors to other support, including the Winter Fuel Payment, help with housing costs, council tax and heating bills.
You can claim Pension Credit if you’re of State Pension age and on a low income. You must live in England, Scotland or Wales to qualify.
Pension Credit is separate from your State Pension. Even if you have savings, a private pension or own your own home, you can still be entitled to it.
How is Pension Credit worked out and how do I apply?
When you apply for Pension Credit your income is calculated. If you have a partner, your income is calculated together.
If your income is higher, you may still be eligible for Pension Credit if you have a disability, care for someone, or have housing costs.
Thanks to the Pension Credit backdating rules, it is possible to apply for Pension Credit and have the claim backdated by up to 3 months as long as there is entitlement during that time. This means that the latest date to apply and still qualify for a Winter Fuel Payment is 21 December 2024.
You can use the Pension Credit calculator to find out how much Pension Credit someone could get – without giving any personal details.
You can also check your eligibility and apply at www.gov.uk/pension-credit or by calling 0800 99 1234.
Other support that can help keep you warm this winter
In addition to Pension Credit, you may also be eligible for the Warm Home Discount.
Knowsley residents can also get independent advice by calling Citizens Advice Bureau on 0808 278 7839. You can even WhatsApp them on 0151 294 6309. Alternatively, get in touch via email advice@citizensadviceknowsley.org.uk.
During October, Knowsley Citizens Advice will be running a series of drop-in advice sessions for anyone who wants to know more about Pension Credit and help with fuel costs. You can call into any of the following events:
Monday 21 October, 9.30am – 3pm: Citizens Advice Huyton, 27 Cavendish Walk, L32 9YG.
Tuesday, 22 October, 9.30am – 1pm: The Arncliffe Community and Sports Centre, Arncliffe Road, Halewood, L25 9PA.
Wednesday, 23 October, 9.30am – 2pm. Unit 7, Leach Croft, Stockbridge Village, L28 1NR.
Friday, 25 October, 9.30am – 3pm. Citizens Advice Kirkby, 142 Cherryfield Road, Kirkby, L32 8RX.
A financial guide for older residents in Knowsley was recently published by Knowsley Older People’s Voice and Knowsley Council. It contains lots of tips to help you save money and maximise your income, too.