The number of pensioners receiving winter fuel payments collapsed to just 1.3 million last year after the government introduced controversial cuts, new Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) figures have revealed.
In previous years, around 11 million people across England, Wales and Scotland benefited from the scheme, which helps older households cover rising winter energy bills. But a Treasury decision to means-test the support left millions without assistance.
The policy has since been scrapped, after Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed a U-turn in June. The majority of pensioners will once again receive the payment this winter, worth up to £300 per household.
The winter fuel payment, introduced to support pensioners with energy costs during the coldest months, was originally universal. However, in July 2024 the government limited eligibility in England and Wales to those on low incomes and in receipt of benefits such as pension credit. Scottish ministers pledged to soften the impact with additional measures.
Reeves defended the decision at the time, citing the state of the public finances. But growing anger among pensioners and criticism from Labour MPs—who linked the cuts to the party’s poor local election results in May—forced the Chancellor to rethink.
Pensioners with an annual income of £35,000 or less will now qualify for the payment and will receive letters confirming eligibility in October or November. The Scottish government has committed to matching the policy.
The winter fuel allowance in England and Wales remains at £200 for pensioners aged up to 79, and £300 for those aged 80 or above. In Scotland, payments will rise in line with inflation this year, meaning households will receive either £203.40 or £305.10.
Energy regulator Ofgem has already confirmed a 2% rise in energy bills from October under its price cap, unless households are on fixed tariffs.
This latest reversal means more than three-quarters of pensioners across the UK will receive vital help with heating costs this winter, easing pressure on millions facing higher living expenses.
