Winter fuel payments are a safety net - Ritchie

More than 293,000 people will get help with their heating bills this year through Winter Fuel Payments from the Social Security Agency.

People aged 60 or over could qualify for £200 per household, rising to £300 for those 80 years or over.

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA said: “This is an important safety net for vulnerable older people and will be especially appreciated this year as fuel costs have risen so much. Most people receive benefit automatically if they already receive a State Pension or other social security benefit.

“But we are concerned that there are others, perhaps those who are working, who do not realise that they are eligible. We would encourage them to contact the Social Security Agency to check if they can claim.

"I would also encourage people to make the most of their Winter Fuel Payment by making sure that their home is as energy efficient as possible. If they need help or assistance with this they can contact the Energy Saving Trust's advice centre."

The winter fuel payment is available to people who reach the qualifying ages during the qualifying week, 17 - 23 September 2007. Claim forms can be obtained by ringing 0845 915 15 15. Claims for the coming winter must be received no later than 30 March 2008.

Further information can be obtained by ringing the helpline on 0845 915 15 15, or visiting the dsdni website .

Notes to Editors:

1. Winter Fuel Payment is available to both men and women age 60 and over in the qualifying week, 17 – 23 September.
2. People who have questions about Winter Fuel Payments can contact the helpline on 0845 915 15 15 (0845 601 5613 for Textphone users). Calls to 0845 numbers from BT landlines should costs no more than 4p a minute with 6p charge for setting up the call. The line is open from 8.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday.
3. Further information is also available at the Department for Social Development’s website .
4. Local Energy Saving Trust advice centres can be contacted by calling 0800 512 012. They are open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
5. Media enquiries to the Department for Social Development Press office on 028 9082 9490. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.