Nearly 1.5 million households in England and Wales have been granted cold weather payments this winter, as confirmed by the government. These payments of £25 are distributed when the temperature in a specific postcode area hits or is expected to drop below zero degrees Celsius for seven consecutive days. Recent freezing conditions have led to additional payments for eligible households.
The drop in temperatures below zero at over 30 Met Office weather stations nationwide triggered these payments. Last winter, approximately 1.4 million cold weather payments were issued. The Department for Work and Pensions reports that over £35 million has already been disbursed to vulnerable households in England and Wales this season, with the program running from November 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.
Individuals receiving Pension Credit are typically eligible for Cold Weather Payments. Those on Universal Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, and Support for Mortgage Interest may also qualify if they meet specific criteria based on employment status, health conditions, disabilities, or caregiving responsibilities for young or disabled children.
In Scotland, residents do not receive Cold Weather Payments but may qualify for an annual Winter Heating Payment instead. Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden emphasized the importance of this support for vulnerable households during extreme temperatures. He highlighted the impact of broader cost of living support initiatives, such as a higher National Living Wage, energy bill reductions, and Winter Fuel Payments for over nine million pensioners.
Low-income pensioners are encouraged to apply for Pension Credit, which not only provides financial support but also offers assistance with housing costs, NHS dental treatment, council tax discounts, energy bill help, and a free TV license for those over 75. Despite the benefits, many eligible pensioners are missing out on Pension Credit, with figures showing that around one million pensioners are losing out on significant financial support annually.
The charity Age UK stresses the importance of ensuring that essential support like Cold Weather Payments reaches those most in need, especially as many older individuals struggle to afford heating costs. The charity welcomes the UK Government’s investment of £35 million to aid individuals of all ages facing challenges in heating their homes and expresses readiness to collaborate with the government to ensure that older people on low incomes receive the necessary financial assistance.