09/11/05 - Winter freeze fears

Campaigners have called on the government to give winter fuel payments to severely disabled people after a double whammy of steep fuel price increases and warnings of the coldest winter in years.

The Meteorological Office said it produced its forecast of bitterly cold weather so health and safety organisations could prepare for the repercussions.

The government has ignored repeated calls for an extension in winter fuel payments to severely disabled people under 60 since Disability Now's campaign was launched six years ago.

Lorna Reith, chief executive of Disability Alliance, said: "If an announcement of the coldest winter in years is not enough for them to take action, then how much do they really care about disabled people?"

She said it was "absolutely crucial" disabled people had enough money for fuel because many conditions required extra warmth. She cited research showing Disability Living Allowance was not adequate to cover all costs, forcing some disabled people to choose between a healthy diet and warmth.

Bert Massie, chairman of the Disability Rights Commission, also demanded a "comprehensive winter fuel payment system" to protect disabled people.

He said: "My fear is that, as they can't afford the escalating costs of fuel, many will be unable to [keep warm]."

Labour MP Roger Berry said the government's past response had been "disappointing", but his new winter fuel payment early day motion had already been signed by nearly 100 MPs.

A Department for Work and Pensions spokeswoman admitted there were about 2,300 "excess winter deaths" of people under 65 every year, but the government had no plans to extend payments.

She said extra help was provided through DLA and income-related benefits for the poorest disabled people.

First published by Disability Now