Community

Age Cymru condemns cuts to winter fuel payments in Wales

Published

1 month ago

October 9, 2024

AGE CYMRU has expressed deep concern over the Westminster Government’s decision to cut Winter Fuel Payments, which will leave more than 100,000 pensioners in Wales without this crucial financial support. The charity has described the move as “appalling,” particularly given that over 86% of pensioners living in or just above poverty in Wales will be affected—the highest proportion of any UK nation or region.

Many of the affected pensioners are already facing significant challenges, including living with disabilities, being isolated, or residing in older, less energy-efficient homes that are harder to heat. Age Cymru is calling on the government to reverse its decision, particularly in Wales, where more than 56,000 eligible people are not claiming Pension Credit—a key factor in determining Winter Fuel Payment eligibility under the new rules.

The charity has been receiving distressing reports from older people across Wales, describing the tough choices they will have to make without this essential financial lifeline. Some have already indicated they will need to reduce their spending on food, heating, and hot water. Of particular concern are those with long-term health conditions who need to maintain a warm home, but are now facing the prospect of having to choose between staying warm and eating properly.

In Age Cymru’s 2024 annual survey, which gathered responses from over 1,300 older people across the country, nearly half reported that the cost of living had been a significant challenge in the past year. More than half cited concerns over their physical health, which is likely to deteriorate further as a result of the cuts.

Age Cymru is urging the Westminster Government to reconsider its decision, or at the very least, to expand eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payments. The charity is advocating for automatic payments to those receiving Housing Benefit, Council Tax Support, Personal Independence Payment, Attendance Allowance, and Carer’s Allowance, to ensure that vulnerable pensioners are not left without the help they need during the cold winter months.

Voices from Wales: Struggling to cope

When asked how they would manage with up to £300 less this winter, older people across Wales shared their concerns:

“It will be a huge struggle to make do on my pension. I lost my husband two years ago, and with a single pension coming in, it is a constant worry how I will pay my bills.”
“We will have to turn the heating off more and find ways to cut back on cooking, heating, and hot water. Because of health reasons, this will be really difficult.”
“This payment makes a real difference to my winter energy costs, allowing me to avoid reducing the temperature in my flat. I have medical problems that mean I spend most of my time inside.”
“We live in a rural community off mains gas. Our heating is oil-fired, and the Winter Fuel Payment covered a sixth of a tank of oil. My wife has chronic kidney disease and feels the cold terribly, so the payment certainly made things easier for us.”
“I am chronically ill and need a warm home. Without this help, I will not be able to stay warm enough to have a decent quality of life. I will have to reduce my food intake.”

Call for Government action

Age Cymru is urging the UK Government to reconsider its cuts, warning that many pensioners, especially those living in Wales, face an increasingly harsh winter without the vital support they once relied on. For the most vulnerable, these cuts may not just represent financial hardship but could have serious consequences for their health and wellbeing.

The charity continues to advocate for a fairer system that ensures older people across Wales, and the rest of the UK, are not forced to choose between warmth and other basic needs.

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

12 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.

Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.

The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:

Privates are private.
Always remember your body belongs to you.
No means no.
Talk about secrets that upset you.
Speak up; someone can help.

After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign

He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.

“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”

Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

Published

21 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.

Community

Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards

Published

23 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.

The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”

The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.

Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.

For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.

Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.