Around 400,000 people on low incomes will be eligible for a new Scottish Government benefit to help with heating costs.
More than £20m will be paid out over the course of February and March in Winter Heating Payments.
Winter Heating Payment replaces the Department for Work and Pensions’ (DWP) Cold Weather Payment. It will be an annual payment of £50 and will be paid regardless of whether there is a sustained period of cold weather in a specific location.
Those eligible for Winter Heating Payment will receive it automatically, with no need to apply. It is paid through Social Security Scotland and people will get a letter to let them know they are eligible.
