Six million households across the UK are set to receive a £150 cost-of-living bonus through the Warm Home Discount scheme, confirmed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer before his departure from Number 10. The extension means around double the number of households now qualify compared to previously.
Expanded Eligibility for Universal Credit Claimants
The Warm Home Discount has been extended to all households receiving Universal Credit, whereas only some of these claimants were eligible before. This one-off £150 discount on energy bills is designed to provide crucial financial support during the most expensive time of the year. The savings are applied by energy suppliers between November and January, typically around the Christmas period, and are awarded as energy credit or a top-up voucher depending on how customers pay their bills.
In addition to Universal Credit recipients, some of the poorest pensioners and those on other benefits such as Housing Benefit and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) will also qualify for the support.
Timing and Context of the Boost
The announcement comes as energy bills are set to rise again in July by an average of £221 a year. The expanded Warm Home Discount aims to offset some of this financial pressure for vulnerable households. Starmer is stepping down as Prime Minister, but his government has confirmed the extension to ensure continued support.
Speaking in the Commons this week about his record, Starmer said: "Thanks to this Chancellor we've delivered the fastest falling NHS waiting lists in 17 years, the money for new rights for renters and working people. And we're lifting half a million children out of poverty." He added: "The test for any Prime Minister is handing over the country in better shape than you found it. I know I can do that."
Starmer's Legacy and Policy Achievements
Starmer concluded by stating: "Because of our decisions, my decisions, the country is moving in the right direction in a stronger and a fairer Britain. Ending austerity, investing in our public services, the fastest falling NHS waiting lists for 17 years, more rights for workers, more rights for renters, standing with Ukraine, Britain's reputation restored and half a million children being lifted out of poverty. Change promised by a Labour Government, fought for by a Labour Government, change delivered by a Labour Government."
The expanded Warm Home Discount is part of a broader package of measures aimed at tackling the cost-of-living crisis and supporting low-income households through the winter months.
