By Paula Gallacher , Stuart Mitchell & Liam Black

Labour’s proposal to scrap Winter Fuel Payments across Scotland has sparked widespread debate. These payments have served as a financial lifeline for many pensioners during harsh winter months . The primary purpose of these payments is to assist individuals with heating costs, relieving financial strain on those who are most at risk during colder periods. For elderly citizens living on fixed incomes or low income families struggling to make ends meet, this support is a lifeline

Moira Black, 73, from Glasgow, is shocked by the decision to scrap the winter fuel payment . She said: ” The effects that are going to impact myself and others will be terrible. We won’t be able to afford food and heating. It will be a matter of choosing between food or heating . Nobody should be put in that position. The government are dodging a bullet by helping themselves instead of helping the most vulnerable and those in need”.

Moira Black

A spokesperson for Age Scotland also commented: ”Hundreds of thousands of pensioners in Scotland on the lowest incomes and living in fuel poverty will not receive the vital financial support they counted on this winter. These aren’t the shoulders to bear the brunt of budget cuts.

“Losing £200 or £300 from their State Pension package this winter will make life much harder for thousands of their constituents who are already struggling to manage their finances. Many will face impossible choices which will seriously affect their health.”

The continuation of Winter Fuel Payments is often framed to safeguard public health and well-being, as inadequate heating can lead to serious health issues such as hypothermia or exacerbated chronic conditions.

Most opposing the rule to cancel these lifeline payments argue that maintaining these payments not only supports individual households but also contributes positively to public health outcomes across Scotland.

Scottish Labour Councillor said: ”We understand fully the concerns of those who will be directly affected, and we will be on hand to support those through other means in the coming weeks. Further information on and updates will on the the South Lanarkshire and Council websites across Scotland. ”

Conversely, opponents of Winter Fuel Payments argue that scrapping them can be justified by fiscal constraints and the need for budget reallocations toward more pressing social needs. They contend that universal payments may not effectively target those most in need and that resources could be better utilized through means-tested support programs or investments in sustainable energy solutions

If you or someone you know has been affected by the winter fuel cuts , further support is available at:

http://www.agescotland.org.uk

http://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/scotland

http://www.samaritans.org/samaritans-in-scotland