Older people urged to keep warm this winter
Older people are being urged to claim their winter fuel payments from the Government to help them with higher energy costs.
Councillor Josie Compton, Warwickshire County Council’s Older People’s Champion and a spokesperson on the Adult and Community Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee, wants to ensure that every eligible older person in the county receives the payments to help them keep warm in winter.
This year the payments are increasing from £200 to £250 for households with occupants aged from 60 to 79, and from £300 to £400 for homes with people aged 80 and over.
Those who receive a State Pension or other benefit (not including Housing Benefit, Council Tax benefit or Child Benefit) will automatically receive their winter fuel payment. Those who think they qualify but do not receive a State Pension or benefits (or only receive Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit or Child Benefit) will need to submit a claim for their payment.
Cllr Compton said: “I want to make sure that older people in Warwickshire do not miss out on what they are entitled to. Higher energy bills are squeezing the pockets of everyone and this payment can really help to meet the spiralling costs.
“To reduce bills, householders should also check how energy efficient their home is and shop around to see if they are getting the best deal from their energy supplier.”