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Winter weather support available
Over one million people across Scotland will receive help with heating costs this winter.
More than one million people across Scotland are set to benefit from a package of winter heating support as payments begin rolling out over the coming months.
The Scottish Government has confirmed that an estimated 1.4 million winter heating payments will be made to help pensioners, low-income households and families with disabled children and young people meet the cost of heating their homes during the colder months.
The support includes Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, Winter Heating Payment and Child Winter Heating Payment, providing targeted assistance to those most likely to face increased energy costs during winter.
The announcement is particularly significant for Scotland’s rural and island communities, where higher fuel costs, limited access to mains gas networks and colder weather conditions can place additional pressure on household budgets. Many households in remote and island areas rely on alternative heating fuels such as oil, LPG or solid fuel, making heating costs more vulnerable to market fluctuations.
Most eligible individuals will receive payments automatically through Social Security Scotland, removing the need for applications in the majority of cases and helping ensure support reaches people quickly and efficiently.
Pension Age Winter Heating Payment has replaced the Winter Fuel Payment in Scotland and provides support based on age and household circumstances. Child Winter Heating Payment continues to support families caring for disabled children and young people with the highest care needs, while Winter Heating Payment offers guaranteed annual support to low-income households regardless of temperature conditions.
Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:
“Over a million people are set to benefit from the Scottish Government’s package of winter heating support, which is stronger than anywhere else in the UK.
“With energy costs predicted to rise again, this could be a valuable lifeline for older people, families on low incomes, disabled children and young people.
“We are committed to treating people with the dignity, fairness and respect they deserve. Our approach supports those most in need. The Scottish Government will continue to ensure vulnerable people get the financial help they need this winter.”
For rural and island residents, the payments can provide important support during a period when increased travel distances, severe weather and higher energy demands often add to the cost of daily life. The funding is intended to help households stay warm and reduce financial pressures throughout the winter months.
As colder weather approaches, the payments offer reassurance to communities across rural Scotland and the islands, supporting household wellbeing and helping people manage rising living costs.
Useful links
- Find out more on Winter Heating Payment at: Winter Heating Payment – mygov.scot
- For further information about Child Winter Heating Payment visit: Child Winter Heating Payment – mygov.scot
- For more information about Pension Age Winter Heating Payment visit: Pension Age Winter Heating Payment – mygov.scot
