Issue date: January 11^th 2010

Labour group leader Cllr Roma Mills is urging local residents on low incomes not to worry about keeping their heating turned up during the current cold snap. She is highlighting the fact that the big freeze has triggered two more weekly Cold Weather Payments, worth a total of £50 for eligible residents in St Albans and surrounding villages. The payments are made when the average temperature is zero degrees Celcius or below for seven consecutive days.

Roma Mills said: “Obviously we don’t want vulnerable people to suffer in the current weather conditions. It is vital that they realise extra help is on the way. The additional Cold Weather Payments are paid automatically to people on a range of benefits and allowances. They are on top of the £250 Winter Fuel Allowance that is paid to everyone aged over 60, which rises to £400 for those aged over 80.”