In Mendip, more elderly residents received government support last winter to help with heating costs, as reflected in new figures.

However, as the colder months approach, charities have expressed concerns, stating that the government's promised aid is insufficient. They are calling for more targeted energy bill support to protect households this winter.

The Winter Fuel Payments scheme, a tax-free annual benefit for those over pension credit age, aims to assist with heating bills during the colder months. Department for Work and Pensions data shows that in the 2022-23 period, 26,428 pensioners in Mendip received this support, an increase from 25,937 the previous year.

Overall, in Great Britain, the number of recipients of payments ranging from £250 to £600 increased compared to the winter of 2021-22. Peter Smith, Director of Policy at National Energy Action, noted that while more people are becoming eligible for the first time, fewer are moving into the higher payment rate category, leading to a greater number of people receiving the benefit but at a lower rate.

In Mendip, the majority of recipients were aged over 80, with 7,472 payments going to this age group. Simon Francis, Coordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, highlighted the inadequacy of the government's support for the upcoming winter, emphasizing that pensioners and other vulnerable groups face uncertainty and dread.

Francis urged the government to introduce an emergency energy tariff for those in need and to provide local authorities with adequate funding for crisis support through the Household Support Fund.

In the South West, approximately 1.2 million payments were made to the elderly, while the South East saw the highest number in Great Britain with over 1.6 million payments.

In addition to the Winter Fuel Payments, pensioners also received an extra payment of either £150 or £300 to help with the cost-of-living crisis. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confirmed that this support will be available again this year to help the elderly navigate through inflation challenges.

A Government spokesperson stated that they have provided significant support to pensioners, including the biggest State Pension increase in history and boosting Pension Credit. "On top of Winter Fuel Payments, pensioners will get another £300 this winter for essential costs, and we are working to reduce inflation to make everyone's money go further," they added.

The winter fuel payment is made to those born on or before September 25, 1957, who lived in the UK during the qualifying week, starting September 18 this year. The payment amount varies based on age, household circumstances, and benefits received during the qualifying week.