News

Pembrokeshire’s new MP votes to cut the Winter Fuel Payment

Published

1 year ago

September 10, 2024

MPs have voted to drastically reduce the winter fuel payment, restricting it to only the country’s poorest pensioners. A Conservative-led motion to block the measure was defeated in the House of Commons by 348 votes to 228, giving the Labour government a majority of 120 on the issue.

New Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell obeyed the Labour Party whips, and voted against the motion, and therefore in favour of scrapping winter fuel payment for the majority of pensioners.

Despite Labour’s commanding majority of 167 in the Commons, the decision was not without dissent within the party. Labour MP Jon Trickett was the only member of his party to support the Conservative motion, while 52 other Labour MPs were absent from the vote. However, this absence does not necessarily indicate an abstention, as some may have been granted permission to miss the session.

The decision sparked outrage in the chamber, with shouts of “shame” echoing through the House of Commons after the results were announced. The cut to the winter fuel allowance will see payments limited to those pensioners claiming pension credit or other means-tested benefits, where previously anyone over 66 was eligible. This change is expected to reduce the number of recipients from 11.4 million to 1.5 million, saving the government £1.4bn this year.

Local Senedd Member Paul Davies has warned that the decision to cut winter fuel payments will have huge implications in Pembrokeshire. Only pensioners who claim pension credit will now receive the payment of up to £300 this winter to help with higher heating bills and it’s believed that the decision to cut winter fuel payments will affect around 21, 566 pensioners in Mid and South Pembrokeshire.

Mr Davies said, “The next few months will be very uncomfortable for many local pensioners, who will now be unable to receive a winter fuel payment. These payments were a lifeline to pensioners and the decision to cut them by the UK Government is callous and cruel.

“The policy has been rushed through without a serious consideration of the impact that it will have – and it’s disappointing that MPs have not done more to scrutinise this policy and hold the UK Labour Government to account. Thousands of local pensioners in Pembrokeshire will go without this valuable support this winter because of the UK Labour Government’s rush to implement this policy. It’s absolutely appalling and the pensioners of Pembrokeshire deserve better.”

The decision comes as Chancellor Rachel Reeves attempts to address a £22bn shortfall in public finances. The cuts to the winter fuel payment were first announced in July, alongside other measures aimed at filling the budgetary gap. However, the move has attracted criticism from across the political spectrum, with charities, opposition MPs, and even members of the Labour Party calling for a rethink.

Trickett, a former shadow cabinet minister under Jeremy Corbyn, expressed concern over the policy, stating that it could drive more pensioners into poverty. “This winter will be extremely difficult for my constituents of all ages,” Trickett said on social media. “Pensioner poverty can be a matter of life and death.” He added that after years of profiteering by energy companies, higher bills would leave pensioners with “a heart-breaking choice between heating and eating this winter.”

Other Labour MPs have also voiced their concerns. Rachel Maskell warned that pensioners would be “frightened” to turn on their lights, fearing they would not be able to afford their bills. Debbie Abrahams criticised the policy, though ultimately voted with the government.

Despite Trickett’s rebellion, which may see him suspended for defying a three-line whip, Labour’s leadership remains firm on the decision. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer defended the cut at the TUC conference in Brighton, stating that economic stability was essential for working people and that the government owed them “respect.”

Conservative criticism of the policy has been equally fierce. Mel Stride, the Tory shadow pensions secretary, called the decision “absurd” and warned it would cause “untold hardship to millions.” He accused the Labour government of rushing the measure through without proper scrutiny or an impact assessment, suggesting it was politically motivated.

Labour ministers have pointed to their commitment to the triple lock on state pensions, which guarantees an annual rise by inflation, wage increases, or 2.5%, as evidence of their ongoing support for pensioners. Chancellor Reeves wrote earlier this week that maintaining the triple lock would increase state pensions by £1,700 by 2029.

As the winter approaches, the effects of the cut will be keenly felt by millions of pensioners who were previously eligible for the fuel payment. The debate over how best to support those most in need during the cost-of-living crisis is likely to continue, with both sides of the political aisle weighing the costs and benefits of the government’s approach.

Meanwhile here in Pembrokeshire, Samuel Kurtz MS commented: “This heartless decision clearly shows where Sir Keir Starmer and his Labour Government’s priorities lie, and it’s certainly not with the 21,000 pensioners in Mid and South Pembrokeshire.

“Despite knowing that older people will struggle to heat their homes this winter – their own report acknowledged this – Labour MPs still chose to strip pensioners of this vital support.

“It hasn’t taken long for Labour ministers and this Government to reveal their true colours.

“I would have voted against this plan, and I will continue to do everything in my power to support vulnerable pensioners through the challenging winter months ahead.”

Crime

Emergency bags rolled out to support domestic abuse victims across Dyfed-Powys

Published

12 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations

A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.

The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.

The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.

Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.

“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.

“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.

“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.

“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.

“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.

Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.

The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.

You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support is also available via the below support services:

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.

0300 123 2996

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)

Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.

01267 221194

Dal i Godi

Live Fear Free Helpline

24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.

0808 80 10 800 | Text 07860 077333

[email protected]

News

Welsh-language school praised for ‘happy, proud and friendly community’

Published

13 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Estyn highlights strong leadership, positive attitudes and a clear curriculum vision at Ysgol Bro Preseli

A WELSH-medium all-age school in Crymych has been praised by inspectors for fostering a “happy, proud and friendly community,” according to a recent Estyn report.

Inspectors said pupils at Ysgol Bro Preseli show pride in their local area, thrive both academically and socially, and are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.

The school currently has 932 pupils on roll, including 118 in the sixth form, and has operated as an all-age school since 2022.

Estyn found that most pupils demonstrate extremely positive attitudes to learning, treat staff with respect, and listen carefully to the contributions of their peers.

The report also notes that, in almost all cases, teachers show strong subject knowledge. Inspectors highlighted the close and supportive relationships staff build with pupils, alongside the creation of a safe learning environment where pupils are not afraid to make mistakes.

It states: “As a result of a clear strategic direction and detailed planning, teachers provide beneficial practical activities that allow pupils to develop purposeful oracy, reading and writing skills in language sessions and across the other areas of learning and experience.”

Inspectors also praised the school’s clear curriculum vision, rooted in its motto Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion (Roots and Horizons).

“Leaders and teachers provide a coherent curriculum and learning experiences that bridge the primary and secondary sectors effectively,” the report said. “Staff plan stimulating activities and experiences for pupils to learn and deepen their understanding within the areas of learning and experience. This contributes positively to the sense of belonging that permeates the whole curriculum of Ysgol Bro Preseli.”

Headteacher Rhonwen Morris said the report was a reflection of the collective effort across the school community.

“As a successful all-age Welsh-medium school, we are delighted that the report recognises our commitment to excellence and the unique identity that makes Ysgol Bro Preseli so special,” she said.

“Since becoming an all-age school in 2022, our cohesive leadership team and governing body have focused on building a strong foundation based on our values of Welsh ethos, kindness, community and responsibility.

“The report highlights the excellent strategic work of staff at all levels, which is a testament to the shared dedication and vision that drives our school forward.

“It is gratifying that the report reflects what we continuously aim to achieve day in and day out. This achievement belongs to our entire community — staff, pupils, parents and governors — and together we will continue to build on this success and provide the very best education for every pupil.”

Charity

Welsh opticians raise £1,600 for people experiencing homelessness

Published

13 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SPECSAVERS Pembroke Dock has helped raise £1,600 to support people experiencing homelessness this winter, with all funds going to The Wallich’s winter appeal.

Thirteen stores from North, South and West Wales donated £1 for every customer feedback form completed during November to help The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity, continue its vital work.

Supporting more than 8,000 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the nation each year, The Wallich runs around 100 diverse projects across 20 local authorities to provide hope, support and solutions to end homelessness.

Funds raised by Specsavers will go directly to the Wallich’s Flexible Assistance Fund, which provides small but vital emergency grants. The grants support people at crucial turning points, helping cover essential costs such as phone credit, rent or food shops.

This initiative is a continuation of Specsavers’ wider homelessness programme, which sees over a hundred Specsavers stores and Home Visits services hold out-of-hours or pop-up clinics and invite people affected by forms of homelessness to use their services for free.

Specsavers’ North Wales regional relationship manager, Martin Lawrence, who helped organise the fundraiser, says: ‘We’re really proud to be supporting The Wallich’s winter appeal at a time when support is needed most.

‘Homelessness affects people in every community and as locally owned and run businesses, Specsavers stores are committed to raising awareness of the issue and supporting people through their toughest moments.

‘We’re excited to build on the success of this fundraiser and strengthen our partnership with The Wallich in the new year.’

Louisa Turner, head of fundraising at The Wallich, adds: ‘Winter can be an incredibly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and this support from Specsavers will make a real difference.

‘The funds raised will help provide emergency grants at critical moments – whether that’s putting food on the table, helping someone stay connected with their loved ones or preventing someone from losing a safe place to live.

‘This kind of support creates vital turning points and helps people move towards a safer, more secure future.’

Specsavers works year-round with homelessness charities including Crisis, Vision Care and The Big Issue, to improve access to healthcare and advocate for policy change – ensuring people experiencing homelessness can receive free eye tests, glasses and hearing checks.