"The Labour government has limited winter fuel payments to about 1.5 million people, down from 11.4 million, affecting many pensioners this winter. The energy price cap rose by 1 percent on January 1, 2025, with predictions of another rise in April 2025. Age UK estimates that around 2 million vulnerable pensioners will miss out on winter fuel payments due to the new means-tested system. Charities and campaigners have urged the government to reconsider the decision, warning it could jeopardize the health and finances of older people."