Nearly 1.5 million households in England and Wales have received cold weather payments this winter, as confirmed by the government. These payments of £25 are issued when the temperature in a specific postcode area reaches or is forecasted to drop to zero degrees Celsius or below for seven consecutive days. The recent freezing weather conditions in early 2026 have resulted in additional payments to eligible households.
The cold weather payments were activated after temperatures fell below zero at over 30 Met Office weather stations nationwide. Last winter, approximately 1.4 million cold weather payments were distributed. The Department for Work and Pensions has disclosed that over £35 million has already been disbursed to vulnerable households across England and Wales this season. The scheme 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 additional criteria such as employment status, health conditions, disability, or caring responsibilities for young or disabled children.
In contrast to England and Wales, individuals in Scotland do not receive Cold Weather Payments but may be entitled to an annual Winter Heating Payment instead. Pat McFadden, the Pensions Secretary, emphasized the importance of this support for vulnerable households during extreme weather conditions. He highlighted that along with other forms of assistance like a higher National Living Wage, energy bill reductions, and Winter Fuel Payment for pensioners, these measures are significantly benefiting households nationwide.
Low-income pensioners are encouraged to apply for Pension Credit as it provides access to various forms of support including assistance with housing costs, NHS dental treatment, council tax discounts, help with energy expenses, and a free TV license for those over 75. Despite this, statistics from 2023/24 indicate that a significant number of eligible pensioners are not claiming Pension Credit, missing out on substantial financial support. Organizations like Age UK stress the importance of ensuring that support reaches those in need, especially during challenging times like cold weather spells.