Changes to the Winter Fuel Payment for Pensioners
The Government recently announced changes to the eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment for Pensioners.
In recent weeks many pensioners have been contacted directly by the DWP by letter to explain the changes and provide information on how to claim Winter Fuel Payment and other benefits.
There is more information here: https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment
If you already receive Pension Credit, you will still automatically qualify for the Winter Fuel payment.
The problem is that many pensioners do not realise that they are eligible for Pension Credit, or lack the ability to apply for it themselves, or have a negative view in claiming benefits.
Online Pension Credit calculator
The Government has set up an online calculator for pensioner’s to use to assess their eligibility for Pension Credit:
https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator
The last date that pensioners can make a claim for Pension Credit and qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment is 21st December 2024.
How to claim pension credit
There is more information on how to claim Pension Credit here: https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit/how-to-claim
The problem is that many pensioners do not realise that they are eligible for Pension Credit, or lack the ability to apply for it themselves, or have a negative view in claiming benefits.
There is some help available from South Tyneside Council.
Help from South Tyneside Council
In South Tyneside there is help available to complete benefits applications from the Council’s Welfare Support Service.
There is more information about how to contact them here: https://southtyneside.gov.uk/article/1467/Welfare-Support-Service
If you have concerns about your wellbeing you or a family member can also request a call or visit from the Let’s Talk Team by completing the form here:
https://southtyneside.gov.uk/article/11742/Request-support-with-care-online
The Council can also help to supply assistive technology and equipment to help with safety and mobility in the home.
There is more information and contact details here:
https://www.southtyneside.gov.uk/article/16577/Apply-for-assistive-technology
The Council can also help to arrange to help with laundry for the elderly and disabled and there is more information here:
https://www.southtyneside.gov.uk/article/10674
Other sources of help and support
There are also a couple of organisations based in South Tyneside that provide social opportunities and community facilities for the elderly:
The Charles Young Centre https://charlesyoungcentre.org.uk/
and Age Concern https://ac-ts.org.uk/
