A Hertfordshire charity encouraging those who can to donate their Winter Fuel Payment for vulnerable pensioners has received backing from a famous actress.

Dame Judi Dench has thrown her support behind Small Acts of Kindness’ new initiative to redirect the Government payments to help elderly people in the county facing the choice between heating their home and buying food this winter.

The Skyfall star joins Ab Fab actress Joanna Lumley who also recently backed the campaign.

The charity, which provides 5,000 Warm in Winter gift bags for the elderly, told the Watford Observer: “Our practical Warm in Winter gift bags containing essential keep warm items are an intervention that can help reduce the risks that older people face when they are cold. For some older people, they could be a life saver.”

“That’s why we feel we can ask those who consider that they don’t really require their Winter Fuel Payment to live comfortably, to donate it, to a cause which reaches those in most need.”

Lynne Misner, chief executive of Small Acts of Kindness

Winter Fuel Payments are paid out from November to virtually everyone over 65. The payments range from £200 to £450 irrespective of circumstance.

Dame Judi said: “If you receive this allowance but don't need it, why not send your payment to the charity Small Acts of Kindness.

“They help older people who are really struggling to keep warm when the cold weather hits by giving them practical Warm in Winter packs.

“It's so important to think of others who are less fortunate in our society, and this is a really simple way of making a real difference to people's lives this winter."

Ms Lumley joined Dame Judi by adding: “It is a little shocking we have many older people who are having to choose between food and heating.”

Donations of Winter Fuel Payments can be made via the charity’s web site www.smallactsofkindness.co.uk

If eligible for Gift Aid the charitable donation will increase by an additional 25 per cent.

See here for previous stories:

https://www.watfordobserver.co.uk/news/17195049.joanna-lumley-urges-those-who-can-to-donate-winter-fuel-payment/

https://www.watfordobserver.co.uk/news/17004266.small-acts-of-kindness-urge-those-who-can-to-donate-their-winter-fuel-payment/