COVENTRY and Warwickshire Age UK said they strongly oppose the means-testing of Winter Fuel Payment.
It said the initial estimate shows that nearly two million pensioners who need the money will not receive it and will face a challenging winter.
People with incomes just above the pension credit limit and those who are seriously ill or have energy-inefficient home will have high fuel bills.
Michael Garrett, chief executive of Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire said: “Many of our clients across the city and county tell us they struggle financially during the winter months, and this proposed change will further strain their ability to stay warm.
“This devastating outcome can, in a large way, be attributed to the fact that many pensioners entitled to Pension Credit, the qualifying benefit for the fuel payment under this proposal, don’t currently receive it.
“Older people living on very low incomes – under £218.25 a week for single pensioners and under £332.95 for couples – who are already missing out on their Pension Credit entitlement will now also lose the Winter Fuel Payment that helps them to pay their energy bills.
“I call on our MPS in Coventry and Warwickshire, along with the UK Government, to halt the planned changes to Winter Fuel Payments and reconsider.
“If you or someone you know might be entitled to pension credit, then please call the charity on 02476 231999 where one of our advisors will be able to assess eligibility and support with the application process.”
