News from Castle Point Labour

Vulnerable can keep the heating on, but only with Labour

Julian Ware-Lane today told vulnerable families in Castle Point not to worry about turning up the heat as the Government pays out millions in Cold Weather Payments.

Around £200 million in payments has been racked up so far this winter, with just over £70 million of this over the cold New Year’s weekend.

Julian Ware-Lane said: “As the cold weather continues, I don’t want vulnerable people to feel left in the cold. I especially want the elderly to know that extra help is on the way.

“There are two ways we are helping this winter – with Winter Fuel payments of £250 or £400 for the over 80s, and many people in our area getting the increased Cold Weather Payments of £25.

“The payments are automatic so everyone entitled will get them and should not worry about turning up their heating.”

Nine new weather stations were introduced this year in a bid to provide a more accurate assessment for those affected.

As well as the Cold Weather payments, over 12.3 million older people will benefit from Winter Fuel payments, totalling about £2.7bn.