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The number of Ipswich pensioners getting government help to heat their homes increased in 2023-24, but upcoming changes will leave many elderly people struggling this winter.
The big picture: 21,865 pensioners in Ipswich received winter fuel payments in 2023-24, up from 21,544 the previous year. However, new eligibility criteria mean millions across the UK will lose this support—thousands in Ipswich.
By the numbers:
21,865 pensioners in Ipswich received winter fuel payments in 2023-24.
That's 321 more Ipswich pensioners received payments compared to 2022-23.
2,667 pensioners in Ipswich currently receive pension credit and will still qualify, implying that nearly 20,000 will go without.
Across Great Britain, 11.6 million elderly people in 8.5 million households received payments last winter.
Why it matters: Charities warn that cutting eligibility could leave many elderly people in dangerously cold homes this winter, particularly those living alone or with disabilities.
What they're saying: Simon Francis of End Fuel Poverty Coalition said: "1.2 million pensioners in absolute poverty and 1.6 million disabled pensioners will no longer receive a winter fuel payment."
Peter Smith of National Energy Action added: "People over the age of 80 are particularly susceptible to the health issues caused and exacerbated by cold homes."
The other side: A government spokesperson said over a million pensioners will still receive the payment, and pointed to other support measures like the warm home discount and Household Support Fund.
What's next: Charities are calling for additional support in the upcoming Budget, particularly through existing schemes like the warm homes discount.
Sources
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