Supporting Bolton Pensioners and Residents Through the Winter: Labour’s Ongoing Commitment to Tackling the Cost of Living Crisis
As temperatures drop and winter takes hold, Bolton’s Labour-led Council is stepping up to ensure that local residents—particularly our older citizens—get the support they need. With the Labour Party in government nationally, we’re delivering practical, comprehensive help right here in Bolton, backed by the national Household Support Fund (HSF).
Building on a Strong Foundation
Bolton has been allocated £2.78 million of HSF funding this year, adding to the £16.68 million our community has already received since the scheme was introduced in 2021. This ongoing investment is a direct result of Labour’s commitment, both locally and nationally, to putting people first.
Under Bolton Council’s new anti-poverty strategy, we’re making sure that funds are used not just for short-term fixes, but also for longer-term solutions. This includes offering support to help residents reduce their fuel consumption and energy bills, access personal financial advice, secure better-paid jobs, and benefit from other sustainable initiatives.
Warm Spaces and Practical Help
We understand that sometimes a warm, welcoming place to spend time makes all the difference. That’s why Warm Spaces have been reopened across the borough, including Bolton’s libraries. Anyone can drop in, enjoy a hot drink, have a chat with staff, and get useful advice on accessing help with food, fuel, and household finances. These spaces also offer free activities, free Wi-Fi, and computer access, helping residents feel supported, connected, and informed.
Up-to-date information and guidance on the cost of food, energy, and everyday essentials is easily accessible on the council’s website. In addition, some residents rely on a continuous energy supply due to health conditions. To protect these vulnerable community members, Bolton Council promotes the free Extra Care Register from Electricity North West. Signing up means extra support during unexpected power cuts—helping ensure no one is left vulnerable when it matters most.
Extra £200 for Eligible Pensioners
We know that rising costs can hit pensioners hardest, especially those just above the Pension Credit threshold. While the national Labour government works hard to make the system fairer, Bolton’s Labour councillors have taken further local action. They’ve agreed to use unspent neighbourhood funds to give eligible pensioners a one-off £200 payment this winter, providing extra peace of mind.
We strongly encourage all pensioners to check if they’re entitled to Pension Credit. Many may be missing out on an average of £3,900 a year in additional income. More information is available at bolton.gov.uk/benefits/pension-credit.
A Wide-Ranging Support Package
From supermarket vouchers for families to emergency help with essentials, Bolton’s Labour-led Council is providing a broad range of support, including:
- Supermarket vouchers for children in families eligible for free school meals.
- Emergency assistance with food parcels, gas, electric payments, travel costs, and essentials like cookers and washing machines.
- Additional funding for local organisations through Bolton’s Fund, enabling them to offer cost-of-living support in our communities.
- Expanded advice services via Money Skills and Care & Repair, offering free debt advice and guidance on cutting energy costs.
- Direct support to Care Leavers, Foster Carers, and Carers, ensuring no one is left behind.
- Warm Spaces across the borough, providing a comfortable refuge from the cold and easy access to specialist support.
- Emergency housing support for those facing genuine hardship.
This help is available to everyone in Bolton, whether or not you currently receive benefits. If you’ve never asked for support before, now is the time to check what’s on offer.
A Message from Councillor Nick Peel, Leader of Bolton Council:
“While inflation has begun to ease, we know many people in Bolton are still feeling the pinch. The Household Support Fund is a lifeline, and yet too many residents aren’t aware of all they’re entitled to.
“Our Labour-led Council and the Labour government are working hand-in-hand to support those who need it most—particularly pensioners who have been affected by changes to the Winter Fuel payment. I’m proud that we’ve put extra funding in place to give eligible pensioners £200 this winter, helping them stay warm and well during these colder months. If you’re unsure what support you might be able to claim, please check today.”
This winter, Bolton’s Labour-run Council and the Labour government are standing firmly behind residents. By delivering comprehensive, sustainable, and accessible support, we’re ensuring that everyone in our town can stay warm, well, and better off.