PRESS RELEASE
Wiltshire Councillors have voted in favour of a motion to condemn the government’s axing of the Winter Fuel Payment for tens of thousands of Wiltshire’s pensioners.
The motion, proposed by Cllr Elizabeth Threlfall (Con, Brinkworth) and Cllr Pauline Church (Con, Wilton) will see the Council Leader writing to The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, on behalf of the county to review the decision which could see many pensioners forced to choose between heating and eating.
The proposal also called on the council to coordinate a social media and press campaign to help residents find out if they are eligible for pension credits, and how they can apply.
Speaking at the meeting in Trowbridge, Cllr Threlfall said she “accepted that governments have to make some difficult decisions,” but described the move to take away the payment as “extraordinarily callous to take the support from pensioners at a time of high and rising energy prices [whilst] simultaneously giving generously to groups who are on enviable salaries just because they persistently threaten to strike.”
“According to official analysis, seven out of ten disabled pensioners will lose the payment while people over 80 will be particularly badly hit - despite the fact that for these groups warmth is essential for good health,” she added.
“Furthermore, many pensioners who are eligible for pension credit remain unaware of their entitlement.
“With over 160,000 pensioners in Wiltshire, the removal of universal Winter Fuel Payments threatens the wellbeing of many of our vulnerable older population.
“In Wiltshire more than 20% of our population is over 65 meaning the county has more than the average percentage of pensioners among its residents.
“It is calculated that there are a thousand Wiltshire residents who are eligible for Pension Credit and not claiming it. I am urging those who are worried to see if they are entitled to support and if they need help claiming online to call the pension credit helpline on 0800 99 1234 or visit a local library where digital support is available.
“'Public Health England’s own data shows that there are around 25,000 excess winter deaths in England every year. We should be looking to reduce this number and one way to help deliver this target is to ensure people have warm homes and a healthy diet.”
Ends
The motion was passed by 74 in favour with three abstentions.
About Wiltshire Council:
Wiltshire Council is committed to enhancing the lives of its residents by providing comprehensive support and services. The Council continually advocates for policies that ensure the wellbeing of all community members, particularly those most at risk.
