UNISON delegates slammed today the “shocking” announcement that those state pensioners not entitled to benefits will no longer receive the winter fuel allowance from autumn 2025.

The allowance is designed to help some of the most vulnerable in society cover winter heating costs, conference heard.

Rosie McGregor, from the retired members section, said: “I have been bitterly disappointed, especially by its lack of compassion for pensioners and those on benefits.

“Starmer says he has to make tough decisions. But it’s harder for pensioners and those on benefits.

“There has been a turnaround of sorts but it will be means tested.

“We are opposed to means testing in any form.”

Ms McGregor added: “The benefit must be reinstated for all, without means testing, and backdated to cover last winter.”

East Midlands retired member Gary Freeman said we must stick to the “long-standing position that we support universal benefit.”

He added the union should support the nationalisation of energy companies so the profits can go back into supporting the people.