Hundreds of thousands of households across the Midlands and beyond are set to receive a vital financial boost as the government's Cold Weather Payment scheme is activated. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that a fresh wave of payments has been triggered following the UK's recent deep freeze.
Which Postcodes Have Been Triggered?
The DWP has confirmed that 246 postcode areas across England and Wales have qualified for the latest payment. This follows a period of sustained sub-zero temperatures brought by Storm Goretti, with the trigger date confirmed as Wednesday, 7 January 2026.
In the Midlands, a significant number of postcodes are included. Major areas set to receive the £25 per eligible household include:
- Stoke-on-Trent (postcodes ST1 to ST7)
- Stafford (ST16 to ST21)
- Shrewsbury (SY1 to SY6)
- Telford (TF1 to TF13)
Other specific locations that have qualified include Shipston-on-Stour (CV36) and Broadway (WR12). In total, the payments are expected to support over half a million households facing increased heating costs during the harsh winter conditions.
Who Qualifies for the Payment?
Eligibility for the Cold Weather Payment is automatically linked to the receipt of certain state benefits. You do not need to apply. If you receive one of the following, you should get the payment:
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Support for Mortgage Interest
The scheme, which runs annually from 1 November to 31 March, provides a £25 payment for each consecutive seven-day period where the average temperature in your area is recorded or forecast to be 0°C or below.
When and How Will Payments Arrive?
The DWP has stated that payments are automatic. Eligible residents should see the £25 appear in their bank account within 14 working days of the trigger date (7 January). The payment will be listed with the reference 'DWP CWP'.
It is important to note that this trigger applies to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The system does not cover Scotland, where the Scottish Government operates a different Winter Heating Payment, which is a flat rate paid regardless of temperature.
With an amber cold health alert in place until Monday, 12 January, Pensions Minister Torsten Bell emphasised the importance of the support. He stated the payments are designed to get help directly to vulnerable households during what has been a challenging "multi-hazard" winter event.
As the UK continues to grapple with freezing conditions, this financial assistance will provide crucial relief for those on low incomes and benefits, helping to cover the soaring cost of keeping warm.
