3,000 Torbay Pensioners Miss Out on Cold Weather Payments

Up to 3,000 Torbay pensioners could be missing out on vital cold weather payments during the recent cold spell, because they are not claiming pension credit.

The latest Government figures showed that 8,540 Torbay pensioners were eligible for pension credit, but only between 60 and 70% actually claim the benefit.  Only those claiming will receive cold weather payments.

Those receiving means tested benefits are eligible for an additional £25 to help with fuel bills during the cold weather.

Adrian said: “Many pensioners, already struggling on low incomes, will find it difficult to pay to keep warm in this cold spell and it is symptomatic of the Government’s complicated pension system that thousands of local pensioners who should be getting extra help won’t be receiving it.”