Charity Appeals for Winter Support Following Fuel Allowance Reduction

A charity focused on helping vulnerable older individuals to “survive winter” has indicated that its grants and advice are now more crucial than ever, subsequent to the government’s cut to winter fuel allowances. The Suffolk Community Foundation has initiated its yearly Surviving Winter appeal for the 14th consecutive year. The winter fuel payment was previously provided to all pensioners to aid with energy bills. However, in July, the government declared it would only be issued to those on low incomes receiving certain benefits, later explaining the need to address a £22bn shortfall left by the Conservatives. The charity mentioned its prior partial reliance on individuals who did not need the payment choosing to donate it to the organization. The Suffolk-based charity reported that its campaign “has taken on even more importance than ever this year as an estimated 90% of older people living in the county are due to lose the winter fuel payment following changes to government policy”. The charity also noted, “This also means Suffolk Community Foundation can no longer raise funds by asking people who do not need the payment to consider donating it to help others instead.” Anna Hughes, the interim chief executive, remarked: “Surviving Winter is now in its 14th year and has raised more than £1.5m so far. “This has provided a lifeline for many thousands of people by helping them to stay safe and warm as the weather turns colder.” Ms Hughes commented that due to the government’s recent alterations to the allowance, “many older people are extremely anxious about the high cost of energy and are having to make difficult choices between heating and eating every single day”. She further stated, “The changes that are being made nationally mean that the need for support is now even greater than ever,” and emphasized, “But Surviving Winter can help – which is why we are appealing to anyone who feels able to donate to consider doing so. “A gift of £175 could help someone pay for gas or electricity, while £350 could provide 500 litres of heating oil.” The charity clarified that individuals aged 66 and above who reside in Suffolk and do not receive pension credit are eligible to apply for a Surviving Winter grant. It also specified, “You must have an income of no more than £20,000 (single) or £24,000 (double) and savings of no more than £5,000.” For updates on Suffolk news, follow BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not accountable for the content of external sites. Details concerning its approach to external linking are provided.