Overview
- The UK Health Security Agency issued an amber cold-health alert for Yorkshire and the Humber, the North West and the North East, warning of increased risks for vulnerable people and pressure on services.
- The scheme pays £25 for each seven-day period of very cold weather between November 1, 2025 and March 31, 2026 when the average temperature meets the threshold.
- Eligibility includes people receiving Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Universal Credit, or Support for Mortgage Interest.
- Payments are made automatically into the same account as benefits within 14 working days after a qualifying period, and residents can check postcode triggers using the government’s online tool.
- Scotland operates a separate Winter Heating Payment, and academics and charities have urged reforms such as advance payments and higher support, which have not been adopted.