More or Less: Behind the Stats cover image

More or Less: Behind the Stats

Could the winter fuel cut cost more than it saves?

Sep 25, 2024
The government’s push for pensioners to claim pension credit raises questions about potential costs. A new statistic on the transgender population has been downgraded, revealing issues with data reliability. Alarmingly, cancer rates are increasing among those under 50, though mortality rates are decreasing. The discussion shifts from serious health concerns to a playful math puzzle, inviting listeners to engage. Additionally, there are intriguing tales of unsung heroes from World War II, showcasing courage and covert contributions.
28:37

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The government's winter fuel payment changes may result in more pensioners claiming credits, potentially exceeding the intended savings of £1.5 billion.
  • Flaws in the census question about transgender identification highlight the necessity for precise data collection methods in diverse populations.

Deep dives

Impact of Pension Credit Changes

The government has made significant changes to winter fuel payments, limiting eligibility to pensioners who claim pension credit. This shift is intended to save approximately £1.5 billion, yet it raises concerns that increased pension credit claims could negate those savings. Current estimates suggest that about 880,000 pensioners eligible for pension credit do not claim it, which, if they do start to claim, could dramatically increase costs. Analysis indicates that if around 480,000 additional pensioners claim, this could result in costs exceeding the intended savings of the winter fuel payment cuts.

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