DIY retailers have seen soaring sales ahead of the government’s move to slash winter fuel payments for millions of pensioners.
B&Q said it saw loft insulation sales rise by almost a fifth over the last month compared to the same time last year, The Telegraph reported.
While DIY giant Wickes said it experienced a rise in demand for heat-saving items that were easy and quick to install, including energy efficient lighting and insulation.
It comes ahead of looming higher payments during the winter months, with a typical household set to pay £1,717 per year on energy bills from 1 October, a rise of £149 per year, after a rise in the price cap.
The government also confirmed it is axing winter fuel payments worth up to £300 for ten million pensioners, with the change due to arrive in November.
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Labour said it will only grant the payments to homes receiving pension credit, that applies to those with an income of up to £218 per week.
Age UK has predicted that 2m retirees could struggle to heat their households over the winter due to the change.
Age UK charity director Caroline Abrahams said: “We’re hearing very worrying comments about how older people are frightened for the months ahead and plan to ration their heating this winter because they’ve lost their winter fuel payment.”
A Department for Work and Pensions spokesman added: “We are committed to supporting pensioners – with millions set to see their full new state pension rise by £1,700 this parliament through our commitment to the triple lock.
“Over 1m pensioners will still receive the winter fuel payment and our drive to boost pension credit take-up has already seen a 152pc increase in claims. Many others will also benefit from the £150 warm home discount to help with energy bills over winter while our extension of the household support fund will help with the cost of food, heating and bills.”
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