Cold Weather Payments
With the recent cold snap, many Streatham families felt that they faced a bitter choice: pay expensive heating bills or stay in the cold.
But today Chuka urged vulnerable local families not to worry about keeping warm as the government pays out millions in Cold Weather Payments.
Chuka said: “As the cold weather continues, I don’t want vulnerable people in Streatham left in the cold. I especially want the elderly to know that extra help is on the way.
“There are two ways we are helping this winter – with Winter Fuel payments of £250 or £400 for the over 80s, and thousands of people in our area getting the increased Cold Weather Payments of £25.
“The payments are automatic so everyone entitled will get them and should not have to worry about being able to keep warm.”
Around £200 million has been paid out so far this winter, with just over £70 million over the cold New Year weekend. The government spends around £2.7bn a year helping pensioners meet their fuel bills – compared to the £60m a year spent by the Tories in 1997.
Cold Weather Payments are paid out automatically to help people pay for heating during cold snaps. You may be eligible for the Cold Weather Payments if you are a pensioner or are receiving Income
Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance.
