State pensioners to lose 'hundreds' after official Budget documentation released

The Winter Fuel Payment looks poised to stay axed for many state pensioners after Chancellor Rachel Reeves failed to u-turn in her Labour Party Budget. Official documentation has confirmed the benefit cut is going ahead - in a blow for older people.

In the official statement, the Government states: "The Winter Fuel Payment will be targeted to those in receipt of Pension Credit or certain other income-related benefits from winter 2024-25, saving an average £1.5billion of taxpayers’ money each year."

Also included in the Budget 2024 document was the Government's pledge to improve the uptake of Pension Credit which is essentially a gateway benefit to the allowance. "The Government has been working to maximise Pension Credit take up and ensure those eligible for this benefit are receiving it," it stated.

READ MORE Petrol and diesel drivers being handed free £130 from today under Labour

"There has been a significant increase in Pension Credit claims following the announcement to target Winter Fuel Payments. The Government is optimising the use of Housing Benefit data and individuals applying for Housing Benefit from Spring 2025 will be proactively encouraged to apply for Pension Credit.

"The Government is contacting 120,000 pensioners currently in receipt of Housing Benefit inviting them to claim Pension Credit too."The Winter Fuel Allowance is intended to help people who have reached state pension age with the cost of heating in the winter.

Speaking on ITV Good Morning Britain, Dr Hilary Jones explained: "The colder months make people more susceptible to serious illnesses such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and even heart attacks. This happens because colder temperatures can thicken the blood, increasing the risk of clots.

"Additionally, shorter days and longer nights can contribute to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as the winter blues, which often leads to depression and physical exhaustion. With heating becoming more expensive and many facing the absence of Winter Fuel Payments, the threat of hypothermia is ever more present."