Official figures reveal shocking levels of winter deaths

Figures released this morning have revealed that the numbers of Excess Winter Deaths in 2015/16 are still at a shockingly high level. The Office of National Statistics (ONS) has today revealed that there were 24,300 reported incidents last winter, with those aged 64 and below affected more than in previous years. 

The news comes as the Chancellor prepares to give his Autumn Statement this afternoon where he is expected to announce measures to support those who are ‘Just About Managing’, dubbed by the Government as JAMs. 

The report, published this morning by the ONS, shows that the problem was highest in Wales with respiratory diseases proving to be the underlying cause of death in more than a third of cases.

Simon Hopkins, Chief Executive of Turn2us, commented: 

“These figures remind us that too many people will find it difficult to meet the cost of basic essentials this Winter. 

“One thing that makes particularly difficult reading is the extent to which those over the age of 75 are affected, especially as so many of these excess winter deaths are avoidable. All too frequently those that are suffering in the cold are not getting support that they are entitled to, for example last year £2.8bn in pension credit went unclaimed. 

“We probably all know someone for whom that extra help might make a huge difference this Winter. These figures provide an urgent call to action to make sure that help and support gets to those who qualify for it.

“I would anyone concerned about a neighbour or relative to help them to find out what support is on offer by visiting the Turn2us website.

“We can and must change this.”
 

-ENDS-

For further information and interviews with Turn2us case studies or spokespeople, please contact:

Una Farrell, Communications Manager on:

una.farrell@turn2us.org.uk or 0208 834 9259

About Turn2us:

• Turn2us is a national charity that helps people in financial hardship to gain access to welfare benefits, charitable grants and support services – online, by phone and face to face through partners and volunteers
• The Turn2us website includes a Benefits Calculator to find out what welfare benefits and tax credits you could be entitled to, a Grants Search to find out if you might be eligible for support from over 3,000 charitable funds, and a range of information and resources to help people in financial hardship
• Turn2us can also provide direct financial assistance through a range of specific funds that are managed directly by the charity, including the Elizabeth Finn Fund which supports people from over 120 different professions