2 December 2002
WINTER FUEL PAYMENTS ON TARGET FOR CHRISTMAS – BROWNE
Des Browne, MP, the Minister with responsibility for Social Development, today confirmed that all people who are automatically entitled to receive a Winter Fuel Payment would receive it in time for Christmas.
He said: "The vast majority of the over 60s who receive a Social Security Benefit get their payment automatically and I am delighted to be able to announce that these payments will be issued before Christmas.
"Meeting the costs of keeping a home warm can be a worry to many of us. It is vital that those most vulnerable in our community are given the security of guaranteed winter warmth.
"Winter Fuel Payments are just one of the many steps we are taking to tackle the problem of fuel poverty in Northern Ireland. These payments, along with the Warm Homes Scheme and the Cold Weather Payments, are an integral part in ensuring that the homes of the over 60s are warm and comfortable this year."
However, Mr Browne urged those people who haven’t yet received a payment to check and ensure they don’t miss out: "While the majority of people receive their payment automatically, many people who do not receive benefits could be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment and I would urge them to contact the Winter Fuel Payment Helpline."
NOTES TO EDITORS:
www.ssani.gov.uk
- The Warm Homes Scheme aims to create warmer and healthier homes for elderly people, those on low incomes and people with disabilities. Grants are available for insulation measures to private sector households where the occupants are on income or disability-based benefits and including central heating for pensioners on certain income-related benefits.
- Anyone aged 60 or over during the week 16 – 22 September 2002 will usually be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment. Claim forms can be obtained from the Winter Fuel Payment Helpline on 08459 151515. Claim forms are also available from local Social Security offices, the Benefit Shop in Castle Court, Belfast and from the Social Security Agency’s website.
Payments of £200 will be made to all eligible households in Northern Ireland. Payment does not depend on the amount of your income or savings and you don’t have to pay tax on it.
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