Flawed System Denies 700,000 Pensioners Winter Fuel Payments

700,000 Pensioners Miss Out on Winter Fuel Payments Due to Flawed System: Martin Lewis Condemns Government's Decision The UK government's recent decision to link Winter Fuel Payments to Pension Credit has sparked outrage among pensioners and consumer advocates. MoneySavingExpert founder Martin Lewis has strongly criticized the move, highlighting a significant flaw in the system. In an interview with Good Morning Britain, Lewis stated, "I’m flabbergasted. You linked Winter Fuel Payments eligibility to Pension Credit which we know is a flawed system." He pointed out that approximately 700,000 vulnerable pensioners meet the income criteria for Winter Fuel Payments but are not receiving them because they haven't claimed Pension Credit. This oversight is causing significant hardship for many elderly individuals during a time of high inflation and energy costs. Lewis's pointed questioning of government minister Pat McFadden underscores the public concern over this issue. The government maintains that efforts were made to encourage applications, but the flawed system remains a barrier to many deserving recipients. The situation highlights the need for a review of the Pension Credit system and its impact on the distribution of essential benefits.