More than 515,000 people have signed an online petition created by Age UK calling on the UK Government to reverse the decision to make Winter Fuel Payments means-tested.
The charity launched the campaign shortly after Chancellor Rachel Reeves made the announcement at the end of July, with the policy change in effect from today, September 16.
The date for the eligibility rule change was chosen to coincide with the start of qualifying week for this year’s Winter Fuel Payment - September 16 to 22.
Despite fierce opposition in Parliament last week, the Labour Government’s plans passed, which means that around 10 million pensioners - including 850,000 in Scotland - will miss out on energy bill help of up to £300, unless they are in receipt of an income-related benefit such as Pension Credit.
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