NEW Winter Fuel Payment benefit being introduced for some pensioners

NEW Winter Fuel Payment benefit being introduced for some pensioners
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


A new Winter Fuel Payment benefit is being introduced for some pensioners after Sir Keir Starmer was hit by a Labour Party revolt. Pensioners based in Scotland are set to receive a new energy bill benefit after losing access to up to £300 offered in Winter Fuel Payment support, the Scottish Government has confirmed

Speaking to Holyrood, Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville confirmed that the payment will not be available until 2025, reversing Chancellor Rachel Reeves' cut. It's understood that all older Scots will be entitled to a payment, but not every recipient will receive the same amount as some pensioners are wealthy.

Reeves' decision to means-test a payment worth up to £300 will see around 900,000 people in Scotland lose out. It comes after Ms Reeves confirmed the Winter Fuel Allowance will be means-tested going forward with claimants needing to be in receipt of Pension Credit from the Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ).

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During an event yesterday, the First Minister confirmed that options to support pensioners in Scotland's colder climate are under review, yet withheld specifics about the final plan: "There are possible steps that could be taken within Scotland to ameliorate the difficulties that are faced by pensioners living in a colder climate without winter fuel payments. That will obviously be the subject of a statement to Parliament."

He further emphasised his government's commitment: "What I am certain of is that the Government I lead must be a Government that stands and offers support to those who face challenges in our society, stands alongside those who are able to take forward opportunities, and that's exactly what will govern and dictate our approach on all the issues that we face."

Ms Reeves' decision sparked backlash from Labour MPs, charities and poverty campaigners as the decision came before Ofgem's recent hikes to the energy price cap.