Winter Fuel Payment support available for Test Valley residents over the age of 66
People above the age of 66 in Test Valley, who may need a little extra financial help this winter, are being urged to come forward.
Earlier this year, borough councillors came together to extend a local Test Valley Winter Fuel Payment Scheme, allocating an initial £20,000 to the project and a further £20,000 if needed.
The Test Valley Winter Fuel Payment Scheme has been in place since 2022, which allowed those who received a payment, but didn’t necessarily require it, to donate it to help others in the borough in need.
Following a government decision to no longer provide everyone over the age of 66 with a Winter Fuel Payment, the council wanted to make sure funding was still available for those struggling.
Age UK estimates that around 2 million pensioners who badly need the money to stay warm this winter will not receive it as result of the government changes. Previously, everyone over the age of 66 would receive a payment.
Those of pensionable age, living in Test Valley, and in need of some extra support are being encouraged to contact Citizens Advice (CA), who will make an assessment to determine whether the person qualifies for financial assistance.
Those the CA identifies for financial help will then be referred to Unity, a Test Valley-based charity that will hold the funding pot and make the payments of up to £100 direct to residents.
Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, said: “We want to make sure that anyone above the age of 66 is getting the help and support they need in these difficult times, but we also need those people to make themselves known to us.
“This money could be vital in supporting vulnerable pensioners in Test Valley and if your elderly relative or friend could benefit from this please encourage them to contact Citizens Advice, they will be more than happy to help them.”
Residents can contact them on 0808 178 6882 or go to their website www.testvalleycab.org.uk.