Blanket bank launched over winter fuel cut
BBCA website aiming to use donations to provide blankets to keep people warm this winter has launched in Staffordshire .
Paris Theodorou, a former Conservative councillor, held a launch event for the Blanket Bank on Tuesday in Cannock.
He said it was in part set up in reaction to Labour’s cuts to the winter fuel allowance.
The government has estimated an extra 50,000 pensioners will be living in relative poverty next year as a result of the change but ministers said they were committed to supporting them.
Mr Theodorou, a solicitor, said it was “heartbreaking” to think of people in the region going cold this winter.
He said people would be able to donate blankets through their website and the bank would give them out to those in need.
“Even if its only one person we can help, at least we have started somewhere and that makes me happy," he said.
“I don’t merely want to be a critic, I want to find a solution and be proactive.
“Eventually people will be able to apply to us to open their own blanket bank in other parts of the country.”
Mr Theodorou's mother, Eleanor, said: “When we saw on the TV that they’d cut the winter allowance, we thought it would be good to come up with something to help the elderly keep warm.
“I’m really hoping and believing it starts in Cannock and spreads throughout the whole country.
“To think that people this winter will choose between food and heating is tragic.”
Barbara Heath, who attended the launch, said it was "absolutely brilliant" and hoped the community get support.
“Fortunately we have a good pension but I watch the smart meter every day. I can afford the bills but there are hundreds and thousands that can’t," she added.
The government remained committed to supporting pensioners and millions would see their state pension rise by up to £1,900 this Parliament, a spokesperson said.
“Over a million pensioners will still receive the winter fuel payment, and our drive to boost pension credit take up has already seen a 152% increase in claims," they added.
"Many others will also benefit from the £150 Warm Home Discount and cold weather payments this winter, while our extension of the Household Support Fund will help with the cost of food, heating and bills.”
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