Over 18,000 Pensioners in Weston to Receive Winter Fuel Payments Under New Threshold

More than 18,000 pensioners in Weston are set to benefit from the expanded Winter Fuel Payment scheme this winter, following the government's decision to raise the income threshold to £35,000.

This change ensures that no lower or middle-income pensioners in Weston will miss out, with over three quarters of local pensioners now eligible for the payment.

Under the new system, all pensioners in England and Wales with an income at or below £35,000 a year will receive the Winter Fuel Payment automatically

Under the new system, all pensioners in England and Wales - worth £200 per household, or £300 if someone in the household is aged 80 or over.

There is no need to apply, and payments will be made in time for winter.

The expansion of eligibility will cost around £1.25 billion in England and Wales and is expected to support around 9 million pensioners. Means-testing will result in a £450 million saving compared to the previous universal model, balancing fairness for both pensioners and taxpayers.

Dan Aldridge Weston MP said: “This is a huge win for Westonlocal pensioners will now get the extra support they deserve this winter.

Means-testing the Winter Fuel Payment is the right thing to do - but setting the threshold at £35,000 strikes the right balance. It ensures that every pensioner who genuinely relies on this support will continue to receive it, while making the system fairer and more sustainable for the long term.

This was one of the issues I pushed when I met with Rachel Reeves on Wednesday 4th June 2025. We need fair, focused support that puts people first.”  

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said;“Targeting Winter Fuel Payments was a tough decision, but the right one. By expanding eligibility, we’re making sure no pensioner on a lower income in places like Weston is left out. Over three quarters of pensioners here will benefit this winter.”

This update builds on the government’s ongoing commitment to older people, with over 12 million pensioners across the UK also benefitting from the Triple Lock, which will increase the State Pension by up to £1,900 this Parliament