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DIY retailers report sales surge ahead of winter fuel payments cut

DIY retailers report sales surge ahead of winter fuel payments cut

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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