New data reveals devastating impact of cuts to winter fuel payment on those 80+

4,739 those aged over 80 in Chippenham are at risk of losing their Winter Fuel Payments due to the government’s cuts, the latest official statistics released today (24th September) have revealed.

Local Liberal Democrat MP, Sarah Gibson, has called on the new government to “change course" and “protect vulnerable pensioners” with thousands at risk of having to choose between heating and eating this winter.

Analysis of the new data shows that in the Chippenham constituency, 4,739 pensioners aged over 80 are not in receipt of pension credit and will lose their Winter Fuel Payment they were previously entitled to unless they receive other benefits. All those aged over 80 were previously entitled to £300 each to help with their energy bills to stay warm during the winter months but many will now lose this money.

In total, last year those aged over 80 in Chippenham received £1,297,800 in support, with £3,086,000 given out to all pensioners in the constituency. This figure will drastically fall this winter following the withdrawal of support by the government for the vast majority of pensioners.

In total, 17k pensioners in Chippenham do not receive pension credit and are also at risk of losing support due to the government’s cuts.

Liberal Democrat MP for Chippenham, Sarah Gibson, said:

“Thousands of pensioners across my constituency are desperately worried about how they will make it through this winter.

“Cutting these payments for thousands of my constituents, including many that are just barely getting by, is the completely wrong thing to be doing.

“It is not too late for this new government to change course, reverse these proposals and protect vulnerable pensioners this winter.”