THOUSANDS of older city residents are being offered £100 to help them pay their fuel bills this winter.

More than 15,000 people aged 80 and over quality for the annual payment from the city council.

This year the scheme has been streamlined with anyone who has received the payment in the past getting it automatically.

Letters are being send to everyone who previously received the cash and those who have become eligible for the first time.

City council leader Susan Aitken launched this year’s scheme when she visited Cromwell Sheltered Housing complex run by Queen’s Cross Housing Association.

She said: “Older people can be very susceptible to the cold but can struggle to heat their homes during the winter months.

“This payment can make a huge difference to help those in our community who are most likely to struggle with fuel poverty. In some cases it can literally be a lifesaver.

“Nobody in Glasgow should have to choose between heating and eating.”
May Lyttle, 81, received the payment last year and will get it automatically this year.

She said: “The payment is an excellent thing and there are people who really need it. It can make a real difference as people don’t have to worry so much about their winter bills.”

Anyone aged 80 and over, or who will turn 80 by March 31, next year, who has not received a letter by November 17 should contact the council to enrol in the scheme.

The dividend is paid to individuals, rather than households, so each person aged 80 plus living in a property can apply individually. Residents of city nursing homes can also apply.

Application forms are available on the council’s website www.glasgow.gov.uk/awd or from revenue and benefits offices at 45 John Street, 780 Govan Road or 125 Westmuir Street, Parkhead. For further information contact 0141 287 7961.

Proof of age and Glasgow residency must accompany forms which should be posted to Glasgow City Council, PO Box 36, Glasgow G1 1JE. The closing date for applications is March 31, next year.

Friends or relatives can help the applicant complete the form but it has to be signed and dated by the recipient.