Nearly 1.5 million households across England and Wales have received a £25 Cold Weather Payment since December, providing essential support to help vulnerable people meet heating and energy costs during periods of freezing temperatures. More than £35 million has been distributed so far this winter, offering timely assistance to low-income pensioners, families with young children and other eligible households as part of the government’s broader cost of living measures.
The Cold Weather Payment is triggered automatically when temperatures fall to zero degrees Celsius or below for seven consecutive days in a specific postcode area. Eligible households receive £25 for each qualifying cold weather period, with payments issued within 14 working days. Those receiving Pension Credit qualify automatically, while some people on Universal Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance and Support for Mortgage Interest may also be eligible if they meet additional criteria related to health, disability, employment status or caring responsibilities. The scheme runs from 1 November 2025 to 31 March 2026, and payments do not affect other benefit entitlements.
The support forms part of a wider package of cost of living assistance, including a £150 reduction in energy bills, increases to the National Living Wage, the removal of the two-child limit, and a £300 Winter Fuel Payment for over nine million pensioners. The government has also committed to maintaining the Triple Lock, which is expected to increase the State Pension by up to £2,100 over the course of this Parliament.
Low-income pensioners are also encouraged to apply for Pension Credit, worth an average of £86 per week, which can unlock additional support such as help with housing costs and free NHS dental treatment. A nationwide Pension Credit take-up campaign has led to increased claims, supported by outreach initiatives in partnership with organisations including Age UK and Independent Age. A recent trial involved direct letters to pensioners identified as likely eligible but not currently claiming the benefit.
Stakeholders have described Cold Weather Payments as a lifeline during cold snaps, particularly as many older people on low incomes report concerns about meeting heating costs. The government has indicated that final payment figures for the winter season will be confirmed after the scheme concludes in March 2026.
