Thousands of households across the UK are receiving a welcome financial boost this week, as a double Cold Weather Payment has been triggered following recent snowfall and freezing temperatures.
What Are Cold Weather Payments?
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) scheme provides £25 for each seven-day period where the average local temperature is recorded at zero degrees Celsius or below. This payment is designed to help vulnerable residents with extra heating costs during the coldest spells.
Payments are made automatically to eligible claimants within 14 working days. The scheme is set to run until March 31, 2026.
Which Areas Qualify for the Double Payment?
Residents in 18 specific postcode districts are now due a total of £50, having qualified for two separate payment triggers. The first was for the period ending December 30, 2024, and the second for the period ending January 6, 2025.
The postcodes that have qualified for both payments are:
- CA9, CA10, CA11, CA12, CA16, CA17
- DG14
- LA8, LA9, LA10, LA21, LA22, LA23
- NE19, NE47, NE48, NE49
- TD9
These areas are largely concentrated in Cumbria, Northumberland, and the Scottish Borders.
Who is Eligible for Support?
To receive a Cold Weather Payment, you must be claiming one of the following qualifying benefits:
- Pension Credit
- Income Support (with specific disability, pensioner, or child-related premiums)
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (with specific premiums)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (with specific premiums)
- Universal Credit (with specific conditions related to employment, health, or young children)
- Support for Mortgage Interest (with specific premiums)
It is important to note that the scheme does not operate in Scotland, where it has been replaced by the annual Winter Heating Payment, which is worth £59.75.
What Should You Do Next?
If you live in one of the listed postcodes and receive a qualifying benefit, the £50 should arrive in your bank account automatically. You do not need to apply. However, you must contact the DWP if a baby is born or a child under five comes to live with you during a cold spell, as this may affect your eligibility.
This financial support comes as a relief to many facing high energy costs during one of the coldest periods of the year, providing crucial assistance to keep homes warm.
