'Too proud' elderly people 'could die' over planned winter fuel allowance changes

Elderly people could die because they are "too proud" to claim for their winter fuel allowance, a charity warned on Wednesday.

The government is planning to restrict winter fuel payments to only those pensioners who are receiving pension credit. Staff at Community Action Northumberland (Can) said many pensioners were reluctant to discuss their income.

They believe that will mean that many miss out on payments when the changes come into force. A government spokesperson said it was "supporting pensioners" by raising pensions and offering a £150 warm home discount.

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Christine Nicholls, the energy lead at Can, said: "I am very worried that some people in Northumberland may die this winter who could have had the extra help." She has met people who were probably eligible for benefits but would not apply as they found it "humiliating". Sue Coulson, 67, from Amble, Northumberland, will be getting winter fuel allowance after Can stepped in to help her.

But she warned that many people would not ask for help. "A lot of people around here are very independent, and they don't want to talk about money," she said. "I have inflammation of the spine, so I need warmth, so it was really important for me." Many people in Northumberland were also living in older, less well insulated properties that were harder to heat, she added.

A government spokesperson said more than one million pensioners would still receive the Winter Fuel Payment while more than 12 million would see their state pension rise by £1,700 "this parliament".

They added: "Given the dire state of the public finances we have inherited, it's right we target support to those who need it most."

The elderly can check eligibility for pension credit via the government's online calculator. There is also a phone line available where help is given to fill in forms for Pension Credit over the phone on weekdays: 0800 99 1234.