To help elderly residents in Hornsey and Wood Green stay warm this winter, Lynne Featherstone is calling on pensioners to make sure that they take advantage of the Government’s cold weather benefits.

Lynne is calling on pensioners to see if they are eligible for the Warm Homes Discount, a Liberal Democrat initiative to take £120 off electricity bills for less well-off pensioners for the next four years. To be eligible for this automatic benefit, elderly residents in Hornsey and Wood Green need to make sure that they are on the right benefits. If a pensioner or their partner receives only the Guarantee Credit element of the pension credit they will be eligible for the discount.

Pensioners can check if they are on the right benefit by calling the pension credit helpline on 0800 99 1234.

All pensioners over the age of 60 also get the winter fuel allowance, between £200-300 per household. Low income households, and residents who are on some income related benefits will also be entitled to cold weather payments of £25 per week during cold snaps, an increase from £8.50 per week under Labour.

Lynne Featherstone MP comments:

“With winter fast approaching, it’s so important that elderly residents here in Haringey get the support they need to stay warm in the cold period.

“And I know how tough it can be to manage a tight budget with high electricity prices. That’s why the government is introducing the Warm Homes Discount, to help deal with higher winter bills for those most in need.

“It’s really important that you get this £120 pound discount off your bill if you are eligible. Please call the pension credit helpline to find out, so you don’t miss out. And please stay warm this winter!”