UPDATE: Households across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland are set to receive essential financial support as temperatures plunge. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that eligible residents will receive £25 Cold Weather Payments for each seven-day period where temperatures fall to zero degrees Celsius or lower.
This urgent announcement comes as the UK braces for severe winter conditions, with many regions facing significant cold spells. The payments will be automatically issued to those receiving certain benefits or Support for Mortgage Interest during the qualifying period, which runs from November 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026.
With energy costs skyrocketing by 2 percent due to Ofgem’s recent price cap increase, the Cold Weather Payments are crucial for families struggling to keep their homes warm. A typical household now pays approximately £1,755 annually for electricity and gas, and further increases are expected early next year.
The DWP emphasizes that Cold Weather Payments are designed to assist with heating costs, providing a much-needed boost for those affected by rising energy bills. If eligible, recipients will receive payments within 14 working days after each qualifying cold spell, directly deposited into their usual bank account.
To qualify, residents must meet specific criteria. For instance, those on Universal Credit must not be employed or self-employed. It is vital for claimants to check their eligibility through the GOV.UK website, while residents in Northern Ireland can consult NI Direct for guidance.
The DWP urges anyone who believes they should have received a payment but did not, to contact the Pension Service or Jobcentre Plus immediately. Claimants on Universal Credit can also update their journal online or call the helpline for assistance.
In Scotland, residents will not qualify for Cold Weather Payments but may receive an annual Winter Heating Payment instead. More details are available at MyGov.Scot.
As the UK faces freezing temperatures, these payments represent a vital lifeline for many families. It’s crucial for those who may be eligible to act quickly to ensure they receive this support. Stay informed and prepared this winter season.
