Nearly 1.5 million households in England and Wales have already 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 reaches zero degrees Celsius or below for seven consecutive days. Recent icy conditions in early 2026 have led to additional payments being issued to eligible households.
The cold weather payments were activated due to temperatures dropping below zero at over 30 Met Office weather stations nationwide. Last winter, approximately 1.4 million cold weather payments were provided. The Department for Work and Pensions stated that over £35 million has been disbursed to vulnerable households in England and Wales this winter. The initiative operates 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 based on various criteria related to their circumstances such as employment status, health conditions, disabilities, or caregiving responsibilities for young or disabled individuals.
While individuals in Scotland do not receive Cold Weather Payments, they may be entitled to an annual Winter Heating Payment. Pat McFadden, the Secretary for Pensions, emphasized the significance of this support for vulnerable households during temperature drops. He highlighted the combined efforts to support households, including a higher National Living Wage, energy bill reductions, and a Winter Fuel Payment of £300 for over nine million pensioners.
Low-income pensioners are encouraged to apply for Pension Credit, which not only provides financial assistance but also grants access to other benefits like help with housing costs, free NHS dental treatment, council tax discounts, energy cost support, and free TV licenses for individuals over 75. Despite this, statistics from 2023/24 revealed that nearly one million pensioners are missing out on an average of £50 per week due to unclaimed Pension Credit. Organizations like Age UK and Independent Age stress the importance of ensuring that financial aid reaches those in need, particularly during cold weather periods.