ALLIANCE Party Councillor Patrick Clarke has welcomed the £52 million in winter fuel payments which was paid to over 318,000 people across Northern Ireland and Down District. Winter fuel payments are issued annually to older people to help with heating bills and those qualifying could get up to £300.
Councillor Patrick Clarke said: “The recent payments will make a huge difference given the high cost at present of solid fuel and home heating oil in recent times.”
“The winter Fuel payments off £200 to those who live alone and £300 if you are aged over 80 will help many older people who may be experiencing difficulty in meeting household bills. This payment will make a considerable difference in times when fuel and oil costs are high.”
‘People can apply if they were born on or before 5 July 1951. The qualifying benefits are Income Support, State Pension Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, State Pension, Widows Benefit, Bereavement Benefit, Incapacity Benefit, Severe Disablement Allowance, Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, Industrial Injuries Benefits and War Pensions.
“I would strongly encourage all those who think that they may qualify for the payment, and have not yet done so, to contact the Winter Fuel Payment helpline on 0845 9151 515 to check their entitlements.”
