Letters: The winter fuel payment cut confirms my worst suspicions about Labour

The winter fuel payment being cut continues to rankle as more readers have written in to express their anger

Winter of discontent

I wrote to Big Issue (and you were kind enough to publish my letter!) before the election – and was rather hoping my pessimism (in being afraid that Labour would be just as bad as the Tories on disability) was misplaced and excessive. Unfortunately, it looks like I was right. I’m now absolutely dreading the autumn statement: Starmer’s Rose Garden speech, warning of pain to come, seems to have been designed to prepare us for plans which may very well include major cuts at the DWP.  

The only hope is the public reaction to the winter fuel payment cuts. It seems to have taken Labour by surprise that people would be as vociferously opposed to removing this payment from so many less well off pensioners.  

Let’s hope the reaction gives them pause. If they think the WFP outcry was and still is bad, an attempt to remove PIP and/or ESA from the severely disabled would provoke fury. We need to be prepared to speak up for ourselves, as disabled people, like the pensioners have done.  

Christine Pryce, Oswestry  

Labour’s abrupt decision to scrap the winter fuel payment is a significant political misstep. This unexpected move, with little to no warning, has caused considerable hardship for many, including my elderly parents, who had planned their finances accordingly. 

Two key strategies could have been implemented to mitigate this issue. The first is a gradual phase-out: Providing a year’s notice before discontinuing the scheme would have allowed individuals, such as the elderly, to adjust their financial plans. This would have prevented sudden and potentially devastating impacts. 

Secondly, clear communication: A comprehensive explanation of the Great British Insulation Scheme, including its purpose and expected benefits, would have helped alleviate public anxiety and ensure a better understanding of the government’s energy policy and a future where prices could be lower. This transparency could have prevented unnecessary panic
and confusion. 

James Dewey, Nottingham 

RE: Dom Joly and conspiracy theories

The internet and social media was supposed to bring information to all. Connection. Instead it’s a place where the disconnected can congregate and feel part of something no matter how silly it is. I think there is a natural pull in humans to be part of a team, a tribe, an active member in something. So, so many people of all types are so disenfranchised by how our world is run that they find a kind of solace in being part of these groups and they will cling on to it for all they’re worth. 

Paul Sutcliffe Boardman, Facebook 

 That’s why I’ve stopped debating on theist vs atheist pages. Even overwhelming evidence for God still gets laughed at. And they make sure they find some natural alternatives, even unproven alternatives but demand proof of God. 

Keith Jones, Facebook 

It’s well known that cults cannot be shown anything that will change their minds. Anything they see/hear that contradicts their beliefs will be assimilated with reasons that explain the disparity without them having to shift their worldview. They’ll blame other people usually, or themselves for not fully understanding the word of God or whatever. 

Sue Lovell, Facebook 

• Starmer defends ‘unpopular’ winter fuel payment cut amid pressure from unions and Labour rebels
• Elderly people’s lives in danger without winter fuel payment, Labour warned: ‘This is a mistake’
• How to get pension credit and ensure you get the winter fuel payment in 2024

Generous John 

How wonderful is this – John, in Colchester High St, saved me a previous week’s edition of the Big Issue that came out in his holiday break. He insisted I take it free when he found out I hadn’t been able to find one. For 20-plus years we’ve nurtured each other, what a wonderful relationship. 

Pat Rudkins, Colchester 

System of failures 

I just watched the Cardboard Citizens film about Terry. Brought up in care, was then homeless so he couldn’t do his homework, and excluded from school. What a system of failures. It costs £100,000 to house a prisoner – more for a juvenile – and £46,000 to pay fees for Eton. It’s a no brainer. 

Helen Smiley 

Furniture fury 

I was interested to read the article by Liam Geraghty about furniture poverty. As a volunteer advocate at a local charity, I am sometimes asked to help source funding for those who have recently moved into housing association accommodation. 

I was appalled to learn that at least one large social housing organisation has a policy of stripping out fixtures and fittings when one of their tenants moves out, leaving a bleak, uncomfortable environment with no flooring, curtains or curtain fixings for the next tenant.  

Apart from the obvious waste and environmental impact, this has a very depressing effect on some of the most vulnerable members of society.  

Anne Unseld, Bromley 

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Do you have a story to tell or opinions to share about winter fuel payments, furniture poverty or any of the topics raised? Get in touch and tell us more. Big Issue exists to give homeless and marginalised people the opportunity to earn an income. To support our work buy a copy of the magazine or get the app from the App Store or Google Play.