Story perspectives

Cold Weather Payments Activated for 500,000 UK Households

1/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has activated Cold Weather Payments for nearly 250 postcode areas, affecting over 500,000 households.
Eligible individuals can receive £25 for each seven-day period of sub-zero temperatures from November 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.
Payments are automatic for those receiving specific benefits, including Pension Credit and Universal Credit.
The Scottish Government has replaced this scheme with a flat-rate Winter Heating Payment.
Pensions Minister Torsten Bell highlighted the importance of these payments for vulnerable households during the cold snap.

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Story summary

The UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has activated Cold Weather Payments for nearly 250 postcode areas, affecting over 500,000 households.
Eligible individuals can receive £25 for each seven-day period of sub-zero temperatures from November 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.
Payments are automatic for those receiving specific benefits, including Pension Credit and Universal Credit.
The Scottish Government has replaced this scheme with a flat-rate Winter Heating Payment.
Pensions Minister Torsten Bell highlighted the importance of these payments for vulnerable households during the cold snap.