Many over 80s at risk of losing Winter Fuel Payments in Hillingdon as Lib Dems calls on govt to “change course”

Liberal Democrats, have called on the new government to “change course” in the face of these new statistics saying that ministers must “protect vulnerable pensioners” with thousands at risk of having to choose between heating and eating this winter.

Analysis of the new data shows that in Hillingdon, 9,802 pensioners aged over 80 received the Winter Fuel Payment in 2023 and 24 but could lose out this time unless they receive other benefits. 

All those aged over 80 were previously entitled to £300 each to help with their energy bills to stay warm during the winter months but many will now lose this money.

Age UK has previously said that 2.5 million pensioners will “be in serious trouble” this winter due to the cutting of the payments. Hillingdon’s Lib Dems called on the government to “reverse these proposals and protect vulnerable pensioners” this winter. 

A Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Hillingdon said:

“Thousands of pensioners here in Hillingdon are desperately worried about how they will make it through this winter. We are especially concerned about vulnerable older pensioners, and these figures are deeply worrying. 

“We have heard countless stories from those who now say they will have to choose between staying warm or putting food on the table as a result of this government’s decision.

“Cutting these payments for thousands of our constituents, including many that are just barely getting by, is the completely wrong thing to be doing.

“It is not too late for this new government to change course, reverse these proposals and protect vulnerable pensioners here in Hillingdon this winter.