1,000 signatures reached
To: Minister for the Department of Work and Pensions
Pay the winter fuel allowance to people with weather-aggravated health problems
We call on the government to extend the winter fuel allowance to anyone who suffers from conditions that are made worse by cold weather.
Why is this important?
Winter Fuel Allowance is a non-means tested benefit. You only need to be a qualifying pensioner to be paid it. The allowance is paid whether you need it or not.
There are a range of conditions that are made worse by cold weather. If you have a condition such as severe Raynauds's or Scleroderma the effects of cold weather can result in painful, swollen cold hands and feet. Being cold can quickly become life threatening due to possible complications such as poor circulation and breathing difficulties. Most people who suffer with autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis and those with limited mobility need to take extra care in cold weather.The recent price hikes in energy costs is impacting on vulnerable groups. It is essential that warmth is maintained for people whose health is made worse by the cold.
Extending this allowance won’t add much to the welfare budget and will mean less cost to the N.H.S. in the long term.
We call on the government therefore to do the right thing, and the pay the winter fuel allowance to those who need it.
There are a range of conditions that are made worse by cold weather. If you have a condition such as severe Raynauds's or Scleroderma the effects of cold weather can result in painful, swollen cold hands and feet. Being cold can quickly become life threatening due to possible complications such as poor circulation and breathing difficulties. Most people who suffer with autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis and those with limited mobility need to take extra care in cold weather.The recent price hikes in energy costs is impacting on vulnerable groups. It is essential that warmth is maintained for people whose health is made worse by the cold.
Extending this allowance won’t add much to the welfare budget and will mean less cost to the N.H.S. in the long term.
We call on the government therefore to do the right thing, and the pay the winter fuel allowance to those who need it.
How it will be delivered
I will email the signatures.