Published: Tuesday, 19th November 2024
Councillors at Cannock Chase Council are urging pensioners not to miss out on receiving the Winter Fuel Allowance (WFA) this year.
The council is supporting efforts to encourage local pensioners to check if they are eligible for Pension Credit - which means they will benefit from the winter fuel payment.
The issue was discussed in the Council meeting last month where it was agreed that the Leader of the Council would write to our local MP Josh Newbury.
The government is undertaking a campaign to raise awareness for those who could be entitled to, but not yet claiming, Pension Credit.
The local authority will help promote including:
• Putting details on every page of their website to signpost to where they can find out more on how to claim
• Adding information to emails from councillors and staff
• And will share government messages through its social media channels
Councillor David Williams, Portfolio Leader for Community Wellbeing said: “With winter approaching and rising costs of living, we must ensure our pensioners in Cannock Chase receive every penny of support they are entitled to therefore we are asking residents, families and local organisations to help spread this message.
“I strongly encourage all pensioners to check if they are eligible for Pension Credit - even if you qualify for just £1, it can unlock additional support worth thousands of pounds each year like a free TV licence if you’re aged 75 or over, help with NHS dental treatment, glasses and hospital appointment costs. Many eligible pensioners miss out because they do not realise, they qualify or think the process is too complicated.
“We want to ensure nobody misses out on this vital support this winter.”
Cannock Chase Council commissions Beat the Cold to deliver an energy advice service which aims to reduce fuel poverty in the district. Beat the Cold can support Cannock Chase residents with all home energy matters, including referrals to DWP for benefit checks, and advice on how to heat the home for affordable warmth.
Fiona Miller, Chief Executive Officer of Beat the Cold shared, “We understand that residents may be worried on how to heat their homes this winter, and our Energy Advisors are here to support. Beat the Cold has been delivering affordable warmth work for over two decades, and we urge residents or caregivers to reach out to see how we can help.”
To make a referral or signpost any Cannock Chase resident who would benefit from the Beat the Cold service, please complete the form https://www.beatcold.org.uk/contact-us/ or call 01782 914915.
Anyone who is unsure if they qualify for the WFA can go to https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit or contact the Department of Work and Pensions dedicated helpline on 0800 99 1234 between Monday and Friday from 8am to 6pm.
The Citizens’ Advice Bureau have drop-in sessions at the Civic Centre in Cannock on Monday from 10am to 2pm and Wednesday from 10am until 12noon and at 7 Brook Square, Rugeley on Tuesday from 10am to 12:30pm and 1pm to 2:30pm and Friday 10am to 1pm, or you can call them on 0808 278 7874.
The deadline for Pension Credit applications to claim this year’s Winter Fuel Payment is 21 December 2024.