Cold Weather Payments have been activated in 451 postcode areas across the UK as snow and freezing conditions persist. Yellow weather warnings for snow and ice have been issued for parts of southwest England, northern England, eastern England and Wales.
The £25 payments are awarded each time the average temperature in a given area drops to zero degrees Celsius or below for seven consecutive days. Recipients can receive multiple payments if there are several periods of freezing weather over the winter.
To qualify, individuals must be receiving certain benefits, including Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, or income-related Employment and Support Allowance. Those claiming Universal Credit or Pension Credit may also be eligible. Payments are typically made automatically within 14 working days, but claimants must apply if they have a baby or a child under the age of five comes to live with them. The scheme runs until March 31, 2026.
Cold Weather Payments are not available in Scotland, where they have been replaced by the Winter Heating Payment worth £59.75.
