Over 10,000 over-80s in Powys could lose winter fuel payment

Recently released government statistics have revealed that 10,728 of those aged over 80 in Powys are at risk of losing their Winter Fuel Payments due to the government cuts.

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 Powys received £3,162,300 in support with £7,745,300 given out to all pensioners across the county.

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This figure will fall this winter after the withdrawal of support by for pensioners.

MP for Brecon, Radnorshire and Cwm Tawe, David Chadwick, called on the new Labour Government to “change course” in the face of these new statistics adding that ministers must “protect vulnerable pensioners” with thousands at risk of having to choose between heating and eating this winter.

“Thousands of pensioners here in Mid Wales are desperately worried about how they will make it through this winter,” said Mr Chadwick. “I am concerned most about those older pensioners, and these figures are deeply worrying.

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“I have heard countless stories from those who now say they will have to choose between staying warm or putting food on the table as a result of this Labour Government’s decision.”

Age UK has previously said that 2.5 million pensioners will “be in serious trouble” this winter due to the cutting of the payments.

In total, 41,212 pensioners in Mid Wales do not receive pension credit and are also at risk of losing support due to the Government’s cuts.