Question reference: S6W-10985
- Asked by: Jeremy Balfour, MSP for Lothian, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 20 September 2022
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Current status: Answered by Ben Macpherson on 3 October 2022
Question
To ask the Scottish Government whether it will provide an update on its progress in introducing pension-age heating assistance payments.
Answer
We are putting in place robust plans to deliver our replacement for Winter Fuel Payment from winter 2024 and we will consult on the proposals for this replacement in due course. Our priority in taking on full responsibility for all the devolved benefits is a safe and secure transition so that people continue to receive support at the right time and right amount.
From this coming winter (2022-23) the Scottish Government’s new Winter Heating Payment will guarantee an annual £50 payment to around 400,000 low-income households each winter. This is not dependent on age but will be targeted, reliable financial support to those most in need, including those in receipt of Pension Credit.