Scottish pensioners will receive a special Winter Heating Payment this season if their income is below £35,000.
Every household will benefit from either £203.40 or £305.10 to help with energy costs.
Homes with a resident aged 80 or over will receive the higher payment of £305.10.
Households without anyone aged 80 or above will get £203.40.
This means Scotland’s older generation will be better supported than in other parts of the UK.
Over 720,000 Scottish pensioners are expected to receive extra help this winter.
The Social Justice Secretary, Shirley‑Anne Somerville, confirmed that due to recent moves by the UK Government, Scotland will align its regulations to mirror those payments.
She described last year’s UK cut as “a betrayal of millions of pensioners” and welcomed the reversal from Westminster.
Ms Somerville said this decision follows careful consideration of possible options to support older citizens.
The Scottish Government will introduce regulations ensuring that, from this winter, all qualifying households receive the appropriate amount.
They are also in talks with Westminster to recover payments from higher‑income pensioners elsewhere in the UK via the tax system.
This means pensioners earning above £35,000 will not need to register or take any action, the recovery will be automatic.
This approach makes sure those most in need receive the greatest support.
For many pensioners living on modest incomes, this extra payment could make a real difference to their quality of life.
It will help with heating bills and offer peace of mind during the colder months.
By ensuring that payment recovery is seamless, the system avoids adding any burden to households.
The move also emphasises the compassionate and practical approach the Scottish Government is taking.
It shows that age and income are being considered in tandem to deliver fair and targeted help.
This winter’s support is one of the most generous packages directed specifically at older households in Scotland.
It is designed to address the heightened costs of living and energy insecurity that many face.
The payment is a strong message from Scotland’s leadership that older citizens are valued and protected.
As the cold season approaches, this assistance should bring welcome comfort to thousands of homes.
The Highland Times is proud to bring this important news to readers across the Highlands, Islands and beyond.
It demonstrates that Scotland’s approach to social justice is both warm‑hearted and effective.
And it signals that our communities will not be left out in the cold.
Readers across the nation will want to know that our pensioners are receiving the best possible support.
Generous financial assistance this winter will help ensure that older Scots can stay warm, safe and well.
Let this story spread far and wide, as a shining example of Scotland doing better for its people.
