Hillingdon Council has recently announced three new initiatives to help support older residents in the area during the winter months. These initiatives were revealed by Cllr Ian Edwards, the council leader, at a meeting held on the 26th of last month. The decision to implement these measures was made in response to the reduction in winter fuel payments by the Government.
One of the key initiatives involves using a portion of the £2 million Household Support Fund allocated to Hillingdon to commission a charity or third party to assist pensioners in the borough. The goal is to help those who may be eligible for Pension Credit but have not yet submitted a claim. Many older individuals struggle with the online application process for Pension Credit, so the council plans to provide in-home support to guide them through the process.
In addition to aiding pensioners with their Pension Credit claims, Hillingdon Council will also focus on improving energy efficiency for pensioner tenants living in the borough’s housing stock. By prioritizing these residents for energy efficiency upgrades, the council aims to reduce their energy bills over the long term.
Furthermore, a Pensioners’ Support Fund will be established to provide eligible older residents with assistance in staying warm throughout the winter season. More details about this fund will be shared in the near future.
Cllr Edwards emphasised the importance of these initiatives in supporting the 13,000 pensioners residing in Hillingdon. While the council may not be able to fully offset the impact of the winter fuel payment cuts, these steps are a significant effort to help vulnerable individuals in the community.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by older individuals in navigating the Pension Credit application process, particularly due to its online nature. By offering hands-on support in the form of in-home assistance, the council hopes to make the process more accessible and less daunting for pensioners.
Ultimately, the aim of these initiatives is to not only provide immediate assistance to older residents during the winter months but also to create long-lasting benefits through improved energy efficiency in their homes. By taking proactive measures to support pensioners in Hillingdon, the council is demonstrating its commitment to the well-being of older members of the community.
