The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) may introduce a new payment scheme to help benefit claimants cope with the financial impact of heatwaves. Experts have called for a "Warm Weather Payment" to support vulnerable households facing unavoidable extra costs during periods of extreme heat, mirroring the existing Cold Weather Payment programme that provides £25 when temperatures drop below zero for seven consecutive days.
Existing Cold Weather Payment Scheme
The Cold Weather Payment scheme currently offers one-off payments of £25 to eligible benefit recipients in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland when the average temperature in their area falls below zero degrees Celsius for seven consecutive days. The scheme runs from 1 November to 31 March each year, and claimants can receive multiple payments if conditions are met repeatedly. Those receiving Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) may qualify, subject to additional criteria.
Case for a Warm Weather Payment
With the UK experiencing more frequent heatwaves, Rebecca Lamb, external relations manager at debt support organisation Money Wellness, argues that financial support should evolve to reflect the costs of extreme weather. She said: "A Warm Weather Payment might sound unnecessary, but for some households, extreme heat brings unavoidable extra costs. Older people, disabled people, those with long-term health conditions, pregnant women, families with young children and people taking certain medications can all be more vulnerable during heatwaves."
Lamb highlighted that keeping homes cool, using fans, increasing water use, and storing medicines safely can all add to household bills. She added: "As our summers become hotter and heatwaves more frequent, it's reasonable to ask whether financial support should evolve to reflect the costs of extreme weather, not just freezing temperatures."
Targeted Support Needed
However, Lamb cautioned against simply mirroring the Cold Weather Payment. She said: "Rather than simply mirroring the Cold Weather Payment, any support should be targeted at households most vulnerable to both the health risks and the financial impact of extreme heat." At present, there is no Warm Weather Payment or equivalent DWP scheme. Those struggling with higher costs during hot weather must rely on existing benefits or local council Crisis and Resilience Funds.
DWP Response and Other Support
The DWP has been approached for comment on whether it is considering such a scheme. Meanwhile, the Cold Weather Payment scheme only operates in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, eligible people receive a Winter Heating Payment of £62 for the upcoming winter, regardless of weather conditions. Benefit claimants also receive other winter support, including the Winter Fuel Payment (between £100 and £300) and the Warm Home Discount (a £150 rebate on electricity bills for those who meet eligibility criteria and whose supplier participates).
