More than 2,500 deaths were linked to cold weather during the 2024/25 winter, according to a landmark report that has ignited a fierce row over Labour‘s decision to scrap winter fuel payments for millions of pensioners. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) analysis estimates 2,544 fatalities associated with low temperatures in England between November 2024 and January 2025.

While the scientific report does not directly address government policy, charities have branded the figures a stark illustration of the “deadly consequences” of the Government’s cost-cutting measures, which saw 10 million fewer elderly people receive help with heating bills. The deaths were concentrated around three cold snaps where average temperatures dipped below 2°C for at least two days. The most lethal was a six-day period from January 7-12, 2025, accounting for 1,630 fatalities amid an amber cold health alert across England. Shorter episodes on November 20-12, 2024 and January 2-3, 2025 also contributed to the toll.

Fatalities were highest among those aged 85 and over, with men disproportionately affected—1,439 male deaths compared to women. Circulatory diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes, caused the most cold-related deaths at 834, as low temperatures narrow blood vessels and thicken blood, heightening risks. Respiratory issues followed, exacerbated by tightened airways.

No cold-associated deaths were recorded in the North East, but all other regions saw increases. The report notes mortality often peaks days or weeks after temperatures drop, underscoring delayed health impacts.

This marks the first time UKHSA has published such cold-specific mortality estimates. Comparing data to the 2013/14-2017/18 period, experts found a “more rapid” rise in deaths during recent winters, suggesting increased population vulnerability. Factors may include harsher flu seasons or broader societal changes, but critics point to soaring energy prices—triggered by the Ukraine war—and the axing of universal winter fuel allowances.

In July 2024, Prime Minister Keir Starmer‘s administration restricted payments to pensioners on means-tested benefits like Pension Credit, slashing eligibility amid a drive to plug a £22 billion fiscal hole. At the time, typical household energy bills under Ofgem’s price cap exceeded £1,700 annually, pushing many into fuel poverty.

Simon Francis, coordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, condemned the outcome: “It’s truly shocking that more than 2,500 people died in connection with cold weather in winter 2024/25, most of them older people. It lays bare the awful reality that far too many pensioners are still trapped in cold, damp homes that put their health and lives at risk.” He added that high energy costs and payment cuts forced pensioners to ration heating “to a dangerous extent.”

Even within Labour ranks, the policy drew fire. York Central MP Rachael Maskell told the Daily Mail: “While the UK remains one of the richest countries, it failed to protect the poorest and frailest.”

Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events at UKHSA, said: “Cold weather remains a serious and preventable risk to public health. This report provides important new evidence on how cold affects mortality, helping to ensure that cold weather alerts and preparedness measures are grounded in evidence of health impact.

The findings suggest that even short periods of cold can lead to significant increases in mortality. Understanding who is most affected and how these risks are changing helps us better target winter preparedness, support vulnerable groups and ensure that cold weather alerts reflect real health impacts, not just weather conditions.”

A Government spokesman defended the measures, stating: “We provided support this winter through the Warm Homes Plan, winter fuel and cold weather payments.”

The report comes as fresh weather warnings for rain, snow and ice grip parts of the UK, reigniting calls for reinstated universal support ahead of future winters.