| Pensioners Unaware of Cold Weather Payment Entitlement |
| Friday, 22 January 2010 | |
 Local MP John Pugh was shocked to discover that 3,180 elderly residents in Southport are not claiming their entitled Cold Weather payments.
Cold Weather payments of £25 a week can be claimed by people on low incomes who also receive a qualifying benefit. The payment is available when temperatures are below zero degrees celsius for seven consecutive days. The Liberal Democrats analysed Government figures and discovered that nationally 1.7 million pensioners who are on pension credits and therefore eligible for the payment are missing out on this entitlement. "The payment is not automatically made so people have to claim for it separately. Its a complicated system and many pensioners are simply unaware that they are entitled to it," said Dr Pugh. The figures also show that the North West has the largest number of pension credit claimants, and also the highest number of pensioners receiving this credit but missing out on the Cold Weather payment that they are entitled to. "With heating and utility bills so high I know many pensioners surviving on the breadline may not be able to afford to heat their homes adequately. In winters like the one we are experiencing its especially important that the most vulnerable in society are given financial aid to ensure they stay warm. "There is help for residents who are struggling. British Gas contacted me to pass on hotline numbers for people who are trying to manage their energy costs. They may be able to offer extended payment terms or transfer the most vulnerable to lower tarrifs. The Home Heat Helpline is also available which will offer some customers acess to free insulation, and give more advide and information." More details about elegibility and how to apply for the Cold Weather payment can be found on the Sefton Council website |