SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan, has encouraged those across the Western Isles who have not already applied for pension credit to do so by 22nd September to ensure they receive the Winter Fuel Payment this year.  

Across the UK, 37% of those eligible do not claim pension credit, which is now a prerequisite for receiving the Winter Fuel Payment of £300 after the UK Labour government cut its universal provision as part of its austerity agenda.

16th – 22nd September 2024 is qualifying week for those who are eligible for the payment this year; however, over 800,000 pensioners across Scotland are now set to lose out.

Commenting, Alasdair Allan MSP said:

“The abhorrent decision by the Labour UK government to cut the Winter Fuel payment has put thousands of pensioners in an unimaginable situation. Last year, 6, 254 pensioners across the Western Isles benefitted from the universal Winter Fuel Payment. In November 2023, there were only 976 people locally in receipt of pension credit.

“As a result of Labour’s cuts to this benefit, most of the remaining 5,278 people in the Western Isles will miss out on the payment altogether this winter.

“The SNP are clear: this is a cruel and inexplicable decision by the Labour government that leaves pensioners across our islands out in the cold.

“If you have not already done so, please check your eligibility and apply for pension credit by the end of this week to ensure you don’t miss out on vital support this winter.”