A senior citizen confronting a reduction in fuel payments expresses his concern about enduring the winter as energy costs escalate.
Roy William Roots, aged 90, is among the approximately 10 million older adults who are experiencing a decrease in their winter fuel allowance of £200 or £300, which will now solely be allocated to those receiving pension credit or other means-tested benefits.
This announcement coincides with the declaration from industry regulator Ofgem that the energy price cap per household is poised to increase by 10% in October, leading to an annual average of £1,717.
The increase is expected to result in normal households facing an additional £12 per month, equating to £149 annually, on their gas and electricity expenses when utilizing direct debit.
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Mr. Roots, residing in Maidstone, Kent, described the news of rising energy costs as “horrific.”
The pensioner is already implementing stringent measures to avoid unaffordable utility bills, such as preparing meals in batches, doing laundry at 10 p.m., and planning to activate heating only in November.
In an interview with Sky News, he stated: “Prior to taking a shower, I would enjoy long baths. Now, I might shower every two to three days – I simply cannot afford to keep it on.”
Having faced challenges with his mental health in the past, Mr. Roots added: “It brings me down.”
He expressed that he is already beginning to budget for the winter to compensate for the gap left by the government’s decision to reduce winter fuel support.
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Mr. Roots indicated that he would likely need to shower weekly or prepare meals sufficient for three or four days rather than two.
“It fills me with dread,” remarked Mr. Roots, expressing concern over whether he will manage through the winter while facing decisions like “Should I cook or turn on the heating?”
In addressing the Labour government, he conveyed: “I would urge them to continue supporting us fairly and adequately.”
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Ofgem’s chief executive, Jonathan Brearley, remarked: “We recognize that this price cap increase will be extremely challenging for numerous households.
“Anyone experiencing difficulty meeting their bills should ensure they are receiving all the benefits entitled to them, especially pension credit, and reach out to their energy providers for additional assistance.”
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband acknowledged the cap’s increase as “profoundly concerning,” yet defended the reduction in winter fuel payments.
He noted: “Ultimately, the predicament we inherited regarding public finances necessitated that decision about winter fuel payments, directing focus to those most in need.”
