Winter fuel fundraisers for pensioners have soared by nearly 3,000% after Labor cut payments, according to GoFundMe.

The fundraising site said it saw a 2,850% increase in calls mentioning “winter fuel” in September compared to the same month last year.

He added that more fundraisers bringing up the issue were launched in September than all of last winter.

A GoFundMe spokesperson said: “As winter approaches, we’re seeing people come together to help friends, families and even strangers when they need it most.

“Britons have shown their immense generosity by doing everything from donating to their local community shop so they can prepare winter care packages to helping charities support older people.”

The Labor Government has faced a strong backlash over plans to restrict universal winter fuel payments to Pension Credit PWs only.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves blamed a £22 billion black hole in the public finances left by Torieswhich they denied when she announced the move in July.

The controversial change will see around 10 million pensioners miss out on payments of up to £300 and is expected to save up to £1.5 billion a year.

But it has been heavily criticized by opposition MPs, charities, unions and some Labor politicians.

A government spokesman said: “We are committed to supporting pensioners – with millions set to see their state pension increase by up to £1,700 this parliament through our commitment to triple lock.

“More than a million pensioners will continue to receive fuel payment in winterand our efforts to boost the absorption of pension credits have already seen a 152% increase in claims.

“Many others will also benefit from the £150 take home discount to help with their energy bills over the winter, while our extension to the Household Support Fund will help with the cost of food, heating and bills. “