Snow in England. Photo: Shutterstock The British government will continue to operate the Cold Weather Payments program this winter (2025-2026) to help eligible households cope with heating costs during periods of extreme weather.
Under the scheme, recipients of certain benefits are entitled to a payment of £25 for each period of seven consecutive days in which the average temperature in their area of residence is measured or expected to be zero degrees Celsius (or below).
The program runs from November 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, and multiple payments will be available based on the number of extreme cold episodes experienced in the area. Residents can check their zip code to see whether the weather conditions in their area qualify for a payment.
Payments will be granted automatically, without the need to apply, and will not affect other benefits. However, in cases of a change in family structure, such as the birth of a baby or the addition of a child under the age of five to the household, the local employment office must be informed.
The payments are available to residents of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland only. Scotland does not have this mechanism in place. Instead, the government there grants a fixed annual heating payment, regardless of weather conditions.