Carrick, Cumnock, and Doon Valley MSP Elena Whitham has urged constituents to take part in the Scottish Government’s consultation on the introduction of the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment. 

From winter 2024, the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, which will be an annual payment, will replace the UK government’s Winter Fuel Payment in Scotland.

The Scottish Government has launched the consultation to understand who should be eligible for this payment, when and how it should be delivered, and what measures can be put in place to support those living off the gas grid. The consultation closes on January 15, 2024. 

SNP MSP Ms Whitham said: “The newly introduced Pension Age Winter Heating Payment delivered by the Scottish Government will assist more than a million pensioners in Scotland in managing their heating expenses, including a substantial number residing in Ayrshire.

"The Scottish Government remains unwavering in its dedication to supporting the most vulnerable during the challenging winter season. To help us do this, it is important that individuals voice their opinions on how the payment can be best delivered.

"In the upcoming fiscal year, Social Security Scotland is set to allocate £5.3 billion in devolved benefits, providing vital support to more than 1.2 million individuals.”