Every pensioner in Scotland to get winter fuel payment next year

Key Points

The universal winter fuel payment was cut across the UK in the summer
This year only those in receipt of pension credit will get the £300 payment to help pay their heating bills
But next year, all pensioners will receive between £100 and £300 – depending on their age and what benefits they receive

The Scottish Government has announced it will bring back a universal winter heating payment to help pensioners heat their homes next winter.

It comes after cuts by Chancellor Rachel Reeves to the Winter Fuel Payment in England forced the SNP to do the same north of the border.

All pensioners were due to receive up to £300 this winter, but the payment was cut to only those who claim pension credit.

The move sparked a political storm and drew criticism from opposition parties, charities and Scottish ministers.

However, on Thursday, Shirley-Anne Somerville announced that every pensioner in Scotland will receive a winter heating payment in 2025/26.

She said those in receipt of qualifying benefits like pension credit would receive the same payment of £200 or £300 – depending on age – while all others will receive £100.

This provides them with support not available anywhere else in the UK.

“The measures I have announced today will go some way to allay the fears of pensioners in Scotland ahead of next winter, but the Scottish Government recognises that more must be done,” the social justice secretary said.

“This Scottish Government is determined to stay true to our values.

“We will not abandon older people this winter or indeed any winter and we will continue to protect our pensioners from the harsh reality of a UK Labour Government.”

Somerville also announced an additional £20m for the Scottish Welfare Fund, to enable councils to provide more support to people in crisis this winter, as well as an additional £20m for the Warmer Homes Scotland Scheme, which helps people install energy efficiency measures and more efficient heating systems.

She said the latter saves, on average, around £300 per year in household energy bills.