Residents in Renfrewshire could be quids in after plummeting temperatures triggered a cash boost.

Last week, wintry conditions hit the area as Storm Darcy wreaked havoc across the UK.

As a result addresses within Renfrewshire have qualified for the UK Government's Cold Weather Payment.

This is due to the mercury dipping below freezing for seven days between February 6 and February 12.

The eligible postcodes include PA1, PA2, PA3, PA4, PA5, PA6, PA7, PA8, PA9, PA10, PA11, PA12 and PA13.

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 those 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