“Winter fuel shame”: Government must change course say Oldham Liberal Democrats

Almost 8,000 people over the age of 80 are at risk of losing their Winter Fuel Payments in Oldham Borough due to planned government cuts.       

Oldham Liberal Democrats have called on the Labour Government to change course before its “too late” to protect these pensioners. 

Liberal Democrat Group Leader councillor Howard Sykes MBE said, “Thousands of pensioners across Oldham are really worried about how they will make it through winter.  Many are looking at a choice between heating and eating.  This is all over a cut to the Winter Fuel Allowance that wasn’t in the Labour Party manifesto.”

“It’s not too late for this new government to change course, reverse this cut and protect vulnerable pensioners this winter.”

Shocking new data shows that, in Oldham Borough, an estimated 7,800 pensioners over the age of 80 stand to lose out this winter under the government’s plans.  Age UK have previously said that 2.5 million pensioners across the country will “be in serious trouble” this winter due to the cutting of the payments.  

Councillor Sykes said, “These numbers are frightening.  Lots of people who receive these payments really rely on them.  They might not be getting pension credit or any other form of support.  This will push lots of pensioners into poverty this winter.”     


More from Oldham Liberal Democrats on the Winter Fuel cut (Sept 24)
85% of pensioners in Oldham Borough to lose out under Labour winter fuel cut  – Howard Sykes (mycouncillor.org.uk)

Information on how to check your Pension Credit eligibility
Pension Credit: Liberal Democrat councillor Howard Sykes says: “Please check if you are eligible or if a relative is as many who are do not claim. As well as losing out on benefits pensioners are entitled to they will also now lose the £200-£300 winter fuel payment unless claiming pension credits.” – Howard Sykes (mycouncillor.org.uk)

The latest statistics can be found here. Government data on Winter Fuel Payment here

Figures are provided by Westminster Parliamentary Constituency.  Indicative figures for Oldham Borough are taken by combining Oldham West & Royton, Oldham East & Saddleworth and one third of Ashton Under-Lyne, to represent the area covered by Oldham Council. 

Pension Credit Source – DWP StatExplore

Data from Age UK can be found here