The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has significantly increased its financial support for households battling freezing conditions, doubling the Cold Weather Payment from £25 to £50 for thousands of eligible residents. This urgent boost comes as a severe cold snap, dubbed a 'snow bomb', grips the nation.
Which Postcodes Are Eligible for the £50 Payment?
On January 6, 2026, the DWP identified 18 specific postcode areas where the enhanced £50 payment has been triggered. Residents in these areas do not need to apply; the payment is made automatically to those who qualify for certain benefits. The postcodes are:
CA9, CA10, CA11, CA12, CA16, CA17, DG14, LA8, LA9, LA10, LA21, LA22, LA23, NE19, NE47, NE48, NE49, TD9.
This is not the first trigger this winter. A much larger list of postcodes saw payments activated on January 1 and January 2, following an initial trigger for the original 18 areas on December 30. The latest announcement on January 6 represents a renewed activation for the same hard-hit regions, primarily in Cumbria, the North East, and the Scottish Borders.
Why Have Payments Been Triggered?
The increased payment comes in direct response to the UK experiencing its coldest night of winter so far. On the night of January 5-6, the temperature in Marham, Norfolk, plummeted to a bone-chilling minus 12.5°C (9.5°F). Remarkably, at least nine weather stations across the country recorded temperatures of minus 10°C or below.
The severe weather is set to continue. The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for wind for south-west England from Thursday into Friday. BBC Weather presenter Simon King explained that Storm Goretti, named by Meteo-France, will bring strong winds and significant snowfall to parts of England and Wales. This has led to stark warnings for the public to take care, with some advisories suggesting people 'should just stay home'.
How the Cold Weather Payment Scheme Works
The Cold Weather Payment scheme is designed to provide a financial lifeline during periods of exceptionally cold weather. A payment is made for each seven-day period of very cold weather (averaging 0°C or below) between November 1 and March 31. The key facts for recipients are:
- The payment is automatically issued to eligible households; no application is needed.
- The standard rate is £25, but has been increased to £50 for these triggered periods.
- Eligibility is linked to receiving certain benefits, such as Pension Credit, Income Support, or Universal Credit.
- The support is in addition to the annual Winter Fuel Payment.
This intervention by the DWP highlights the severe impact of the current winter weather on vulnerable households. The doubling of the payment acknowledges the increased hardship caused by prolonged sub-zero temperatures and the associated costs of heating. With further severe weather forecast, residents in the affected postcodes are urged to check their eligibility and ensure their heating systems are safe.
