What are cold weather payments and who can get them?

Published On Feb 9, 2021, 8:40 AM

Cold weather payments have been activated for the winter of 2024, triggered by prolonged periods of below-zero temperatures in certain areas. Eligibility requires individuals to be receiving certain benefits such as Pension Credit or Universal Credit in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each payment is worth £25 for a seven-day period of qualifying cold weather, with payments made automatically to eligible recipients. In Scotland, a separate winter heating payment of £58.75 is available to those on low incomes, and a similar program might be available in other regions under different conditions.