This winter, older people in Bradford are facing unprecedented challenges as the cost of heating homes continues to rise and thousands lose access to the Winter Fuel Payment.
“These people are not strangers—they are parents, grandparents, friends, and neighbours—vulnerable members of our community who are being hit hardest by the cost-of-living crisis,” a statement from charity organisation Age UK Bradford District.
Mark Rounding, CEO of Age UK Bradford District, explained: “Year on year it’s getting tougher for older people to live comfortably, and this year sees a drastic change for many older people in Bradford District. We see a huge uptake in our services each year and we are bracing ourselves for a busy winter period, especially since many older people will be losing their Winter Fuel Payment”.
With energy prices increasing again, many elderly people in Bradford are being forced to choose between heating their homes and buying food. These harsh decisions put older residents at a greater risk of cold-related illnesses, including heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory problems. As temperatures drop, the reality for many is stark: surviving the winter could become a matter of life and death.
To make matters worse, significant cuts to the Winter Fuel Payment have left thousands of older people without a financial safety net. Many who had come to rely on this essential support to heat their homes will now be left in the cold. The knock-on effects on their health, well-being, and quality of life could be devastating.
Age UK Bradford District is stepping up its efforts to help as many older people as possible through this crisis, but they claim that they need help. The demand for their services has skyrocketed, and they simply cannot meet the growing needs without increased support from the local community.
The charity has experienced a 227% increase in the number of older people that they are helping to access Pension Credit and are calling on local businesses, community groups, and individuals to come together and raise vital funds so they can provide support to those most at risk.
