Thank you for contacting me about changes to the Winter Fuel Payment.

This shameful policy will mean that some of the most vulnerable people in society will lose the emergency payments that keep them safe and warm this winter. The Government’s chilling political choice risks impacting thousands of people in West Worcestershire who are surviving on lower incomes but do not qualify for Pension Credit. If all those who qualify for Pension Credit now claim it, this decision will end up costing the Treasury more than it was planned to save.

I have voted against this poorly thought-out measure, and I have urged the Prime Minister and Chancellor to do the right thing and reverse it now. I have also signed and promoted the petition calling for the policy to be scrapped.

People who are eligible should apply for Pension Credit so they can still access the Winter Fuel Payment. If you are unsure about your eligibility or need any help applying, please get in touch with my office. The Household Support Fund can also provide one-off payments to those struggling with their bills. Please reach out to Citizens Advice on 0808 278 7891 for more information about this scheme.

Thank you again for sharing your views with me.