Thousands looking for help to hang on to winter fuel payment flood The Sun’s helpline
THOUSANDS of Sun readers flooded our Winter Fuel SOS helpline yesterday looking for help to hang on to the payment.
Our experts explained to pensioners that they could still be eligible to the allowance, worth £300, if they receive Pension Credit.
The panel — including Baroness Ros Altmann and Sir Steve Webb — also offered advice on cutting energy bills.
One caller, a 73-year-old man on a state pension, told how he was worried he would narrowly miss out on qualifying for Pension Credit but has little spare income at the end of every month.
He said: “I voted for this Government and then they immediately turned round and did this without warning.
“I am really disappointed. I have worked all my life and paid into the system.”
Another worried caller said she already receives Pension Credit, but can only afford one shower a week as she is on a water meter.
Many readers were baffled about whether they are eligible for Pension Credit.
Our experts are working through all of our readers’ queries to try to find helpful solutions, such as how to apply for Pension Credit or secure better deals on bills.
If you called the helpline, which is now closed, you will get a call back within a week.
Neil, 80, from Balmullo, Fife, called the helpline yesterday. He said: “I am very grateful to The Sun for doing this.
“I don’t use the internet so it was really helpful to speak to someone on the phone and get help working out if I might qualify for Pension Credit.”
Ten million older people were affected when Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced in July that only households in England and Wales that receive Pension Credit or certain means-tested benefits will be entitled to the Winter Fuel Payment.
Before this the allowance was available to everyone over the age of 66.