Energy payment cut will come with a shock
Stacey Gatfield-Tupou is bracing for a reduction in income at the end of next week.
The new Winter Energy Payment, paid to pensioners and those on the main benefits through the colder months, will stop at the end of the month.
Budget advisers said the payment, of $20.46 a week for single people on the pension or other main benefit with no dependent children and $31.82 for couples and people with children, had made a big difference to many people and some would get a shock when it stopped.
Gatfield-Tupou said she gave up work because of stress and workplace bullying in March. She receives
$395 a week, including the Winter Energy Payment. Rent is $270 and her two main bills add up to $15 a week. She is left with $110 for food, gas, power and internet. From October 1, that will be $90.
‘‘I recently went into the emergency department with suspected kidney issues to be then told I have suspected lower-lobe pneumonia, I was handed a script for pain relief and antibiotics which a week since going to A&E I haven’t had the spare money to fill my prescription.’’ She said life was tough on little money. ‘‘I have no motivation as I am depressed to look for work even though I know it will help my situation. It’s hard to wake up and do life.
‘‘When I can’t buy enough food to last myself a whole week or get the power paid, something has to give. I can only imagine how many other Kiwis are going to find it hard when that winter payment stops because although it’s only $20, that $20 has been a little bit easier to do ‘life with’.’’
She said it would be kind for the Government to consider extending the payment, or not to offer it at all, so no-one had the chance to get used to it. ‘‘Let’s face it, the cost of living, food or petrol isn’t going down any time soon.’’
Other beneficiaries felt the same. Diana said she could barely live on the emergency benefit, in Manawatu¯ . ‘‘That extra $20 allowed me to put fuel in the car to see my very sick husband who is terminal in rest home care.’’
She said she was thrifty and did not drink or go out. ‘‘Life just sucks and after next week, it will be worse.’’
Social Development Minister Carmel Sepuloni said about a million people had had access to the payment this winter.
‘‘We have always been clear that the payment is for the winter months and the Ministry of Social Development has communicated this through emails and letters to all recipients. If anyone is worried about how they’ll manage without the Winter Energy Payment they should contact MSD. MSD will check to make sure they’re getting all the help they can get.’’