OFGEM Price Cap Hike Will Hit Low-Income Pensioners Hard This Winter
Age Scotland has warned that the new Ofgem price cap rise risks pushing an increasing number of older people into fuel poverty, at a time when key support has been removed and many are already feeling financially squeezed.
4 in 10 Scottish pensioners currently live in fuel poverty.
When the 10% increase to the energy price cap comes into effect today (1st October) and without the Winter Fuel Payment to provide a much-needed financial buffer, the charity fears more older people will have no choice but to live in cold homes and eat fewer hot meals - putting their health at risk.
Age Scotland’s Chief Executive, Katherine Crawford, said:
“This significant increase in the energy price cap will hit hundreds of thousands of Scottish pensioners twice as hard this winter when coupled with the UK Government’s rushed and unwelcome decision to means test the Winter Fuel Payment at such a low level.
“With bills set to rise 10% and no plans to support older people on low incomes unless they receive Pension Credit, this winter is looking particularly bleak.
“Without the ability to adequately heat their homes in fear of falling into unmanageable debt, older people will be spending longer periods in colder homes, eating fewer hot meals, and will be at greater risk of health problems such as heart, respiratory and circulatory diseases.
“It’s vital that older people double check they are not missing out on any financial support such as Pension Credit, or help with home insulation and draught proofing. They can call our free 0800 12 44 222 helpline to do so.
“However, huge numbers of older people fall just outside the eligibility criteria for support, and we can’t afford to wait for the worst affects to be felt before taking action to ensure they are not left in the cold this winter.
"Three things need to happen before the coldest weather bites, but time is running out. The UK Government needs to introduce a social tariff on energy, revisit the brutal removal of the Winter Fuel Payment for so many, and rapidly increase the number of people claiming the Pension Credit they are missing out on."
