The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has activated its Cold Weather Payments scheme for the winter, offering a vital financial lifeline to vulnerable households facing sub-zero temperatures.
Who qualifies for the £25 payments?
Eligible households do not need to apply for the support; payments are made automatically. The scheme provides £25 for every seven-day period where the local temperature is forecast to be zero degrees Celsius or below.
To receive a payment, you must be claiming one of the following benefits and meet specific additional conditions:
- Pension Credit: You are eligible if you do not live in a care home.
- Income Support / Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance: You must also receive a disability or pensioner premium, or have a disabled child or a child under five living with you.
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA): You qualify if you are in the work-related activity or support group. If not, you need a severe or enhanced disability premium, a pensioner premium, or a child who is disabled or under five.
- Universal Credit: Typically, claimants are eligible if they or their partner are unemployed or 'gainfully self-employed' and have a health condition limiting work capability, or have a child under five.
- Support for Mortgage Interest: Qualification depends on having a severe/enhanced disability premium, a pensioner premium, or a child who is disabled or under five.
Important distinctions across the UK
This scheme applies to England and Wales. Last winter, it delivered over 1.4 million payments, totalling approximately £35 million in support.
However, the system differs in other parts of the UK. Residents of Scotland should look into the Winter Heating Payment, administered by Social Security Scotland. Northern Ireland operates a separate but similar scheme that mirrors the one in England and Wales.
How to ensure you receive your payment
Payments are typically automatic, but there is one crucial exception. If you qualify solely because you have a baby or a child under five living with you, you must inform Jobcentre Plus to receive the money.
For more detailed information and to check eligibility based on your specific postcode, visit the official Gov.uk website.
