Changes to Winter Fuel Payments – Information Event with Citizens Advice Northumberland

On  29 July, the Chancellor announced changes to the Winter Fuel Payment (WFP).

The WFP is an annual one-off payment to help pensioners pay for heating during the winter, introduced in 1997. Depending on your age and if you live with somebody else who’s eligible, it could provide up to £300 towards your bills.

However, the new announcement means only those receiving Pension Credit or other means tested benefits will now be eligible for WFP.

The changes might be confusing and worrying to some people who have already factored WFP into their household budget.

If you are struggling, or simply want to make sure that you are getting all the financial help you are entitled to, Citizens Advice Northumberland can help you to check that you are not missing out on any Pension Credit or benefits that could boost your income.

The Citizens Advice Northumberland Community team will be attending the following events to offer advice and support:

• Berwick Library – 27 August 10am
• King James Court, Berwick – 28 August 10am
• Full Circle Food Project, Ashington – 29 August 2pm
• Bedlington Library – 02 September 1pm
• St Mary Magdalenes Parish and Church Hall, Prudhoe – 06 September 11am

You can download the following information for more advice:

• Winter Fuel Payments – Audio Presentation
• Pension Credits Leaflet
• Beyond Pension Credits Leaflet
• Attendance Allowance Leaflet
• Large Print Pension Credits Leaflet

Contact us:

• Call us free on 0808 278 7944
• Visit us at one of our local offices
• Get online advice at www.citizensadvicenorthumberland.org.uk