A CAMPAIGNER has teamed up with charity Age Connects North East Wales to support those in Wrexham and Flintshire following the confirmed cuts to winter fuel payments. 

The cut to winter fuel payments for those on more than £12,000 a year is expected to affect around 8 million pensioners in the UK. 

The change has raised concerns about the impact on vulnerable elderly individuals, especially those on low incomes who rely on these payments to help with heating costs during the winter months. 

Community campaigner and fundraiser Eddie Duggan, from Shotton, who's work has included Jade's Law and Knife Crime Prevention, has now linked up with local charity Age Connects North East Wales, based in Flint, to start a campaign.

He said: "Since the announcement I have been asked by many people in the area what can be done?  I think the reason many have approached me in particular is mainly due to them knowing of my previous campaigning endeavours. 

"I have linked up with a local charity Age Connects North East Wales and after a constructive meeting, it was decided that we could provide a viable channel where people in Flintshire and Wrexham will be able to seek real assistance in the coming winter. 

"Age Connects NE Wales is a local charity serving the Counties of Flintshire and Wrexham, with funds raised during the campaign, they are strategically placed so that people who ask for assistance in these areas will be afforded such assistance. 

"So, things like warm clothing, extra bedding, cost effective heaters, food, information on local 'Warm Hubs', assistance in Social Services and/or benefits that individuals can apply for, or just a friendly conversation by someone to make sure a person is ok, this is what the charity will provide with available funds.  

"I feel that as a community we should be seen to be doing something in order that the most venerable within our community know that they have not been forgotten."

They are asking for cash donations to buy items such as blankets, food and heating solutions for those in need. Eddie explained that there isn't a suitable storage option should people donate the physical items, so they can purchased as and when supplies are needed. Donations can be made at totalgiving.co.uk/donate/age-connects-north-east-wales

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A QR Code PDF is also available which can be printed and posted in local shop windows. 

The vote to cut winter fuel payments was made on September 9, 2023 and has already caused residents of all ages and backgrounds to worry across the UK.

Age Connect will ensure the finds are placed to the right people in need over the coming months, says Eddie.

"They have a network all over the areas of Flintshire and Wrexham and will help those who are struggling."

If you or anyone you know if struggling, contact info@ageconnectsnewales.org.uk for support.