The UK government has launched a new scheme for those particularly suffering in the winter months. The Cold Weather payment offers payments for those in areas where temperatures are especially low. We look at if students are eligible to receive the money.
Many people are struggling this winter with freezing temperatures and rising energy costs. Already, the government has given £400 to homes to help pay for electricity and gas bills from October to March. However, it’s proving not to be enough and more money is being offered for those in colder areas.
Mostly, students, are not eligible for the £400 payment as their bills are included in student accommodation. Now questions are being asked if students are eligible for the cold weather payment.
What Is The Cold Weather Payment?
The Cold Weather Payment is a scheme available in England and Wales to give those in colder areas more money to help with bills. Here is exactly how it works.
If your area has, or is forecast to have temperatures of zero degrees celsius or below for 7 consecutive days, then you may be entitled to more money.
Those eligible will receive £25 for every 7-day period that temperatures drop between November 1 and March 31. You can see if your area is eligible for payment here. Each payment will be given within 14 days of the cold period.
Unfortunately, those in Scotland are not eligible for the Cold Weather Payment.
Are Students Eligible For The Cold Weather Payment?
For the most part, students are not eligible for the payment. If you are a mature student, then it is definitely worth checking if you receive other kinds of support.
Those who are more likely to be eligible are those who receive:
- Pension credit
- Income support
- Income-based Job-Seekers Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Universal Credit
- Support for Mortgage Interest
That being said, each category has other requirements that must be met to get the Cold Weather Payment. Circumstances include receiving Child Benefits, having a health condition or disability, pensioner premium and more.
The scheme is not something that needs to be applied for. You will receive the payments automatically if you are eligible. If you believe you should be getting the payment but aren’t, then tell Jobcentre Plus, the Pension Service or add a note to your Universal Credit Journal. Alternatively, you can speak to someone via phone.
If you are a student and you are struggling in the winter months then speak to your university and loved ones.
