Source · Select Committees · Energy Security and Net Zero Committee
Recommendation 10
10
Rejected
Cold Weather Payment criteria are too high and payments inadequate for vulnerable households.
Conclusion
The criteria for triggering the Cold Weather Payment is set too high and does not reflect the impact that extreme cold can have on vulnerable households. Inadequate and unpredictable payments, sometimes made weeks after a period of cold weather, do not give vulnerable households confidence to use their heating. This can have devastating consequences including energy rationing and severe ill health. (Conclusion, Paragraph 40)
Government Response Summary
The government states it keeps policies under review but defends the current Cold Weather Payment criteria, explaining that the seven consecutive day period for below-freezing temperatures is considered a clear and reasonable measure of sustained cold.
Government Response
Rejected
HM Government
Rejected
The Government continues to keep all policies under review. With respect to Cold Weather Payments, payments are currently made at £25 per seven consecutive days of below freezing temperatures in the eligible recipient’s local area, as measured by the weather station linked to their postcode district. The seven consecutive day period has been maintained because it is a clear and reasonable measure of a sustained period of cold weather. Such conditions are likely to lead to extra heating being required.