At the upcoming full council meeting, Councillor Nic Puntis will propose a motion addressing the critical impact of the Labour Government's recent decision to cut universal Winter Fuel Payments. The motion, which will be seconded by Councillor Robert Giles, will highlight the importance of these payments in supporting elderly residents in Chippenham and across the UK during the winter months.
Winter Fuel Payments have been essential in helping vulnerable older individuals afford heating, preventing "heat or eat" dilemmas and protecting their health throughout the coldest part of the year. Councillor Puntis will raise concerns over the Labour Government’s decision to restrict eligibility for these payments to only those receiving Pension Credits and other specific benefits.
The motion will also focus on the anticipated 10% rise in the Energy Price Cap, set to take effect in October. Councillor Puntis will argue that this increase, coupled with the removal of Winter Fuel Payments for many pensioners, will push thousands of local elderly residents into fuel poverty, with a significant impact expected in Chippenham.
Councillor Puntis will highlight that Chippenham is home to nearly 9,000 residents over the age of 65, many of whom are pensioners who already face financial difficulties in retirement. He will express concern that cutting Winter Fuel Payments for those not on Pension Credit, especially with little notice and no compensatory measures, could severely affect their health and financial stability this winter.
With the support of Cllr Robert Giles, the motion will call on the council to stand in solidarity with local pensioners who are set to be affected by these cuts. Both councillors will urge the government to reconsider its decision and introduce measures to protect the most vulnerable elderly residents from the harmful effects of rising energy costs.
The motion will reinforce the council’s commitment to advocating for the well-being of Chippenham’s elderly population and addressing any government policies that could jeopardize their health and financial security during the challenging winter months ahead.
View the full motion on the Chippenham Town Council Website here.
