Keeping warm in the cold snap

Hull North MP Diana Johnson today urged vulnerable families in Hull not to worry about turning up the heat as the Government pays out millions in Cold Weather Payments.

Around £200 million in payments has been racked up so far this winter, with just over £70 million of this over the freezing New Year's weekend.

Diana Johnson MP said; "As the severe cold weather continues, I don't want vulnerable people to feel left in the cold. I especially want the elderly to know that extra help is on the way.

"There are two ways we are helping this winter with Winter Fuel payments of £250 or £400 for the over 80s, and 54,400 people in our Hull and East Riding area getting the increased Cold Weather Payments of £25.

"The payments are automatic so everyone entitled will get them and should not worry about turning up their heating."

Nine new weather stations were introduced this year in a bid to provide a more accurate assessment for those affected.

As well as the Cold Weather payments, over 12.3 million older people will benefit from Winter Fuel payments, totalling about £2.7bn.

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