Energy giant Octopus has stepped in to support pensioners who have been hit hard by the loss of their Winter Fuel Payments, making it tough for them to pay off their energy debts.
In a controversial move , the DWP stopped the payments, which can amount to £300, leaving many pensioners out in the cold as eligibility became means-tested. This change has left around two million low-income individuals who don’t meet the new criteria worried about their upcoming bills.
To address this issue, Octopus Energy is offering a helping hand to those customers now struggling to pay their bills. Pensioners with Octopus who have lost their Winter Fuel Payment can now seek aid up to £200.
Octopus explained: “Fewer UK households are now eligible for the Government’s £200-300 Winter Fuel Payment this year. And we know many customers depended on this help.”
“That’s why we’re stepping up to help bring this support back to customers who need it most: offering our own £50, £100 and £200 ‘Winter Fuel Payments’ to thousands of Octopus customers who’ll no longer be eligible with the recent changes.”, reports Coventry Live.
“Means-testing the payment helps make sure support goes to customers who need it most – some of the lowest-income households. But no targeting is perfect and we know it could leave some pensioners who are just above the affordability line with additional costs to cover.”
“We’re extending our £30m Octopus Assist fund so that thousands of customers missing out on the Winter Fuel Payment and struggling with bills can now claim discretionary credits of £50, £100 and £200 from the fund. We’ll ask you to share some information about your health, any vulnerabilities, income and monthly costs so we can work out the best ways we can help you. Applying is quick and straightforward, and you can do it online, over the phone, or by mail.”