East Belfast Ulster Unionist Party MLA and Communities Spokesperson, Andy Allen MBE, has written to the Prime Minister following the formal introduction of the Winter Fuel Payment Regulations for England and Wales.

Mr. Allen stated:

"While this regulation does not directly alter eligibility in Northern Ireland, it places the Northern Ireland Executive in a difficult position. They must either maintain parity with England and Wales or find tens of millions of pounds to preserve the current universal approach to winter fuel payments in Northern Ireland, all within an already challenging budget environment.

“There are those who would argue that the universal distribution of the Winter Fuel Payment is unsustainable, as it has been provided to individuals who may not need it. However, the approach announced by the Chancellor, now set to be implemented in England and Wales, risks leaving many pensioner households—who rely on this payment to keep their homes warm—facing significant hardship.

“From a public health standpoint, suddenly removing this assistance has the potential to worsen health inequalities and increase pressure on the NHS, as older people unable to afford sufficient heating face greater health risks. Such outcomes are both socially and economically detrimental, particularly when reducing health disparities should be a top priority.

“I recognise that the decision regarding the universal distribution of the Winter Fuel Payment in Northern Ireland is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland Executive and in particular the Department for Communities. Nonetheless, any departure from the policy announced by the Chancellor would impose a substantial and likely unaffordable cost on the Department for Communities during a time of growing financial pressure.

“Given these concerns, I have written to the Prime Minister, urging his government to commit to reviewing the eligibility criteria for Pension Credit. Many vulnerable pensioners just miss the threshold for Pension Credit but are far from financially secure. The Winter Fuel Payment is not a bonus but a vital lifeline for these individuals.

“It is essential that the Department for Communities promptly clarifies the position for Northern Ireland. I would also encourage households to seek professional advice on their eligibility for Pension Credit, especially since the Government is now using it as the main qualifying criteria for the Winter Fuel Payment in the UK and potentially Northern Ireland.

“It is well known that many people across the UK are not claiming Pension Credit, as well as other social security benefits, despite being entitled to them. Each year, many miss out on support they are eligible for. The Department for Communities offers a free ‘Make the Call’ service at 0800 232 1271 to assist individuals in checking their entitlement.”