More than 837,000 winter heating payments have already been made to people across Scotland, as the Scottish Government rolls out what it says is the strongest package of winter heating support anywhere in the UK.
The payments are designed to help households cope with rising energy costs during the coldest months of the year, with support delivered automatically through Social Security Scotland.
More than 268,500 payments have been made through the Child Winter Heating Payment and the Winter Heating Payment, both of which are only available in Scotland.
The Child Winter Heating Payment supports families caring for children with the highest disability support needs, with the majority of payments already reaching bank accounts.
Winter Heating Payment provides a guaranteed annual payment to people receiving certain benefits, regardless of outside temperatures.
This differs from the Department for Work and Pensions Cold Weather Payment used elsewhere in the UK, which is only triggered if temperatures fall to freezing or below for a full week.
In addition, more than 568,000 Pension Age Winter Heating Payments have been made to people aged 66 and over.
This payment replaces the Winter Fuel Payment in Scotland and is paid at a higher rate than in other parts of the UK.
Payments to pensioners will continue to be made throughout the winter period.
The Scottish Government says all winter heating payments delivered by Social Security Scotland are automatic, meaning there is no need for people to apply.
Social Justice Secretary Shirley Anne Somerville said the support was vital as household pressures continue to grow.
“Costs are rising and there will be many people struggling with household bills this winter.
“That’s why the Scottish Government is taking action and will deliver the strongest package of winter support than anywhere else in the UK.
“We’re providing winter help no matter the weather and I’m pleased that over three quarters of a million payments have already been made to do just that.”
Energy advice services have also welcomed the payments as a tool to help reduce fuel poverty.
Joe Cluxton, energy coordinator at FEL, which provides free home energy advice to residents across the Forth Valley, said the support could make a real difference.
“We welcome the range of winter heating support delivered by Social Security Scotland as a means to address fuel poverty and the rising cost of heating our homes.
“The cost of living crisis may drive some to keep the heating off or too low in homes with vulnerable residents, and this is a valuable move to keep people safe through the coldest seasons.”
Fuel poverty remains a significant concern across many parts of the Highlands and Islands, where colder weather, rural housing stock, and higher energy costs can combine to put additional pressure on households.
The Scottish Government says the scale and certainty of the payments are intended to help people plan ahead and avoid choosing between heating and other essential costs.
Ministers say further payments will continue to be made as winter progresses, ensuring support reaches people when they need it most.
