BARNSLEY Council bosses have vowed to keep the town’s pensioners warm this winter following the government’s announcement to axe almost 40,000 winter fuel payments across the borough.
The controversial decision, announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, confirmed the benefit will now only apply to those who are on pension credit.
Ministers voted in favour of the scrap last month with the benefit being handed to pensioners who receive less than £218.15 a week - or less than £332.95 as a joint weekly income with their partner.
It now means that across Barnsley, 86.7 per cent of pensioners - a total of 38,779 who received the payment last year - will now miss out under the means-tested guidance.
As few as 5,950 people could be eligible under the new rules.
Since the announcement, council bosses have vowed to keep pensioners warm over the coming months - and they’ve now announced a ‘comprehensive support plan’.
They will utilise the government’s Household Support Fund to provide ‘crucial aid’ to those who are set to miss out on the payment, ensuring that no one is left without the help they need.
Pensioners are also being encouraged to take up Pension Credit - and drop-in sessions will be held across the town to help residents complete their applications.
Coun Wendy Cain, cabinet spokesperson for public health and communities, said: “We want our residents to know that we are here to support them, especially our pensioners who may be facing financial challenges.
“We know there are people in Barnsley who are eligible for Pension Credit but are not yet claiming it, and we are committed to helping them access the benefits they deserve.
“By taking these proactive steps, Barnsley Council is working to ensure that all our residents can access a range of support this winter.”
All details of these initiatives, including information on drop-in sessions and other available support, can be found on the council’s ‘More Money in Your Pocket’ website.
The site features a user-friendly Pension Credit calculator, allowing residents to quickly estimate what they might be entitled to receive.
It also provides a comprehensive overview of all the support available in Barnsley, serving as a valuable resource for anyone seeking financial assistance.
Anyone who is not eligible for Pension Credit, or who miss the deadline to receive the winter fuel payment, will still be supported by the council.
Bosses will work with community groups to ensure that everyone has the necessary help over the winter period.
