Special bonus payments designed to help individuals manage the cost of living are currently being deposited into bank accounts. Several support schemes are in operation for low-income households throughout the winter, including the Warm Home Discount, Household Support Fund and Cold Weather Payments.
These initiatives are distributing cash, providing a financial boost for millions. The Warm Homes Discount offers a one-time £150 reduction on energy bills over the winter period, targeting those most concerned about heating costs during the colder months, such as vulnerable pensioners and less affluent families.
Those who receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, along with other adults on low incomes with high energy costs, are eligible. These are likely to be individuals claiming some form of benefits.
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The Government-funded discounts can be applied at any time between October and March, so some may benefit from this in January. Households facing financial difficulties can also apply for £200 cash grants from the Household Support Fund (HSF).
This fund is comprised of Government money but is distributed by local councils. Applications for payments can be made to local authorities, who will typically need evidence that applicants are struggling to afford essentials like food, energy and water, reports Birmingham Live.
It’s important to note that applicants do not have to be receiving benefits.
Meanwhile, as Britain is gripped by sub-zero temperatures, Cold Weather Payments are being deposited into bank accounts. These payments, worth £25 for every week of very cold weather, have already seen some households receive £50.
They are issued locally based on temperatures recorded at weather stations. Despite these support schemes, a significant one – Winter Fuel Payments – has been withdrawn for millions of pensioners this year.