DWP says how many new Pension Credit claims there were after Winter Fuel cuts

Figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) released today shows a spike in pensioners making applications for support as winter fuel payments scrapped

Almost 75,000 pension credit claims have been made since the government announced winter fuel payments will be axed for millions.

Data from the Department for Work and Pensions released today shows a spike in pensioners making applications for support. In total there were 74,400 pension credit claims in the eight weeks since July 29 - a 152% increase on the previous eight weeks.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced in July the winter fuel payments of up to £300 would be scrapped for all but the poorest pensioners. Instead only OAPs on benefits or receiving pension credit will get the support.

It was part of her drive to plug a £22billion "black hole" in the public finances the new government has said it inherited from the Tories. The figures come as Keir Starmer faces intense pressure over the controversial decision to cut winter fuel payments for millions.

At the Labour conference earlier this week, delegates delivered a blow to the PM and voted through a non-binding motion demanding he abandons the cut.

Sharon Graham, the general secretary of Unite and one of Labour's most powerful union backers, blasted the new government and called for a U-turn. She told the conference arena: "I do not understand how our new Labour government can cut the winter fuel allowance for pensioners and leave the super-rich untouched."

Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall has previously urged pensioners to check if they are eligible for pension credit, which would unlock winter fuel payments of up to £300. Last month the DWP said some 880,000 households eligible were yet to make a claim.

A government spokesman said: “We are committed to supporting pensioners – with millions set to see their state pension rise by £1,700 this parliament through our commitment to the triple lock.

“Given the dire state of the public finances we have inherited, it’s right we target support to those who need it most.

“Over a million pensioners will still receive the winter fuel payment, and our drive to boost Pension Credit take up has already seen a 152% increase in claims. Many others will also benefit from the £150 Warm Home Discount to help with energy bills over winter while our extension of the Household Support Fund will help with the cost of food, heating and bills. “