In a move to safeguard vulnerable older residents, Somerset Council has overwhelmingly passed a motion to oppose the Government's changes to the Winter Fuel Allowance. The motion, brought forward by Conservative Opposition Leader Councillor David Fothergill and seconded by Independent Councillor John Hunt, calls for the government to reconsider its recent decision, which could see millions of pensioners lose vital support for heating this winter.
The Council highlighted the vital role that Winter Fuel Payments play in helping Somerset's 110,000 older residents afford heating during the colder months, preventing 'heat or eat' dilemmas. Councillor Fothergill emphasised the urgency of the issue, saying, “You can't fill a black hole by throwing vulnerable pensioners into it. The withdrawal of Winter Fuel Payments without a full risk assessment has sparked universal condemnation, and Somerset Council is standing firmly against this injustice."
In his speech, Councillor Fothergill added, "It’s been reassuring to see the coming together of so many to condemn the withdrawal of the winter fuel payments. I never thought that I’d see myself on the same side of an argument as Jeremy Corbyn, John McDonnell, or most of the large unions. But it’s good to see people uniting over this issue."
The motion, which passed with overwhelming support and only three councillors abstaining, commits the Council to send a letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer calling for a postponement of the Winter Fuel Allowance cuts until a full impact assessment is conducted. The Council also pledged to raise awareness about Pension Credit uptake to ensure all eligible pensioners in Somerset receive the support they are entitled to.
Additionally, Somerset Council resolved to work with Voluntary Charity Faith and Social Enterprise (VCSFE) partners to ensure a substantial portion of the Household Support Fund, available from 1st October 2024 until 31st March 2025, is directed toward helping Somerset pensioners struggling with fuel poverty.
