JOHN GIBSON URGES PEOPLE TO CHECK ELIGIBILITY FOR COLD WEATHER PAYMENTS

As reported in last Thursday's Crosby Herald:

Local Councillor John Gibson is urging people to check their eligibility for Cold
Weather Payments, a £25 a week payment made when temperatures are forecasted to be 0 degrees and below over seven consecutive days.

Those eligible include older people in receipt of pension credit, in addition to any Winter Fuel Allowance payment. Payments are also made to disabled adults and children, and families with children under 5 who receive an income-related benefit. Those claiming jobseeker's allowance, disability and support allowance may also qualify.

Councillor Gibson is concerned that some people may not even realise that they are entitled to this payment. “Home Heat has estimated that 5.2 million households across the Country last year did not claim their entitlements. This winter looks set to be even colder for longer periods of time, and I am concerned that some older and more vulnerable people will be deterred from putting their heating on for fear they wont be able to afford their heating bills."

"I would urge anybody who wants more information and would like to check their eligibility to contact the Age UK helpline on 0800 169 6565. There are also many people who could also be eligible for free insulation grants and reduced tariffs. Again, if you are unsure of your entitlements please give them a ring on their freephone helpline number.”