It has been so cold lately! The temperature has dropped significantly, the ‘feels like’ temperature is even lower and everyone has generally been complaining about how chilly it is! Here in the UK we do get variable winters. Some are milder than others, but we often get snow and ice, along with everything else. Fortunately, for those struggling to stay warm, there is a scheme available which will give you a Cold Weather Payment. There are conditions attached to this though, so let’s explore what it’s all about and how you might be able to claim a Cold Weather Payment.
What Is A Cold Weather Payment?
For those who are eligible, a Cold Weather Payment will be received if the average temperature where you live is recorded as, or forecast to be zero degrees celsius or below over seven consecutive days. If this is the case, a payment of £25 for each of these weekly period will be made. The Cold Weather Payments are for low temperatures between November 1st 2024 and March 31st 2025. This five month period is when we typically get some of the coldest weather. It is worth knowing about the scheme as you could be in receipt of a Cold Weather Payment.
It is important to note that the scheme is not available to those living in Scotland.
How Likely Am I To Receive A Cold Weather Payment?
In early January 2025 there were over 50 postcode areas where temperatures fell low enough to activate Cold Weather Payments. If you are eligible (in receipt of certain benefits) there is nothing you need to do. If the mercury reaches low enough temperatures, the payment will automatically be made to you.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) which is in charge of the scheme states that almost 4 million can claim the payment. The payments should be received within 14 days of the 7 day period of cold weather. The money will be paid directly into the same bank account as the other benefits received.
The postcodes where a Cold Weather Payment was activated were in Northern England earlier this year. These included Bradford, Burnley and two postcodes in County Durham.
Check Your Benefits
If you are not due a Cold Weather Payment because you are not in receipt of benefits such as Universal Credit, it is well worth checking your benefits eligibility. Lots of people could claim money but do not realise it. A quick look at a benefits calculator such as entitledto can help you figure out if you could be due some money.
Weather Proof Your Home
It’s well worth checking the weatherproofing of your home. Are there draughts that you could easily eliminate? Could a bit of added insulation on pipes help prevent future issues? When it gets cold, it can be hard to keep our homes warm. Doing what we can ahead of time can certainly help us retain heat when we need it. With the cost of energy ever-increasing, some small changes or amendments can help you stay warm in the long run.
