A number of Berkshire addresses are eligible for a 'cold weather payment' after plunging temperatures triggered a cash boost.

Homes in postcode areas across the county have qualified for the UK Government's Cold Weather Payment as a result of the freezing temperatures for a seven day period.

This includes the likes of RG1, RG2, RG4, RG5, RG6, RG7, RG8, RG10, RG12 for the period of November 1 to March 31.

Other postcodes across Berkshire include: RG14 ,RG20, RG30, RG31, RG40, RG41, RG42, RG45, SL1, SL2, RG18, RG19, SL4, SL5, SL6

As we previously reported, temperatures plunged in Berkshire that week as Storm Darcy wreaked havoc across the UK.

What is the Cold Weather Payment?

The Cold Weather Payment is a cash boost which helps with heating costs when the temperature is recorded as, or is forecast to be, colder than zero degrees Celsius across seven days in a row.

This payment will give you £25 for each seven day period of very cold weather between November 1 and March 31.

Am I eligible?

The Cold Weather Payment may be available to Berkshire residents on low incomes, and who are in receipt of certain benefits.

To be eligible for a Cold Weather Payment, you must receive one of the following benefits:

Universal Credit – if you are not employed or self-employed

Income Support

income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance

income-related Employment and Support Allowance

Pension Credit

Support for Mortgage Interest

Additionally, you must meet at least one of the following criteria:

Be in receipt of a disability or pension premium

Have a child under five living with you

Be in receipt of Child Tax Credit that includes a disability or severe disability element

Have a health condition or disability and have limited capability for work

Be in the work-related activity group or support group

Have a severe or enhanced disability premium.

Have a disabled child in the household – if you are receiving Universal Credit then you will receive a CWP where this applies, whether you are working or not

When will I get paid?

If you are eligible to get a Cold Weather Payment, you will be paid automatically, and do not need to apply.

However, if you believe you should have received a payment but have not, tell your pension centre of Jobcentre Plus office.

To check if you are eligible, visit the Government's website.