New support for Hull pensioners hit by winter fuel payment cut
Council says over 1500 people could benefit
Last updated 28th Oct 2024
Pensioners in Hull who have been affected by the Government’s cuts to the Winter Fuel Payment may be in line for extra help from the City Council.
Earlier this year, the new Labour Government announced major alterations to the Winter Fuel Payment. Despite the decision proving to be highly controversial, Ms Reeves insisted the policy was necessary to help fill the £22 billion ‘blackhole’ that the Government claims has been left over by the previous Conservative regime.
Councillors have endorsed plans to provide £307,000 to pensioners in the city who will not receive the winter fuel payment despite being on limited incomes. Those that are in receipt of Council Tax Support at the higher levels of between 80% and 99% will receive a £200 payment to support them through the winter.
The funding will come from Hull City Council’s latest 6-month allocation from the Government’s Household Support Fund (HSF), which will also see cash go to things such as free school meals for eligible families during holiday periods, school uniform grants, and support for warm spaces.
The Leader of Hull City Council, Councillor Mike Ross, said: “As a Council, we have called on the Government to scrap their plans to cut the Winter Fuel Payment. Regardless of whether that happens, we have to look after our own here in the city. These payments should benefit over 1,500 pensioners across Hull.
“Whilst we welcome the extension of the Household Support Fund, we are still seeking urgent clarity from the Government about what it will do to help the most vulnerable people in the long-term.”
The £200 payments will be allocated automatically via the Council Tax accounts of eligible pensioners, and there is no need to make any application for the money.
Pensioners who receive Council Tax Support at the full 100% level will already be in receipt of Pension Credit or an equivalent, and so will continue to receive the Government’s Winter Fuel Payment.
Hull City Council will also use the Household Support Fund to continue to support the work of foodbanks, as well as providing help for low-income households to improve energy efficiency, including insulation improvements and boiler replacements.