RESIDENTS are being urged to check if they are eligible for a cash boost when temperatures drop.

Advice on the UK Government’s Cold Weather Payments Scheme is being offered now that the clocks have gone back an hour.

The payments, worth £25 a week, are triggered when the average temperature reaches, or is forecast to be, below freezing over seven consecutive days at the weather station linked to the local area between the start of November and end of March.

Those who receive Pension Credit, Income Support, Employment and Support Allowance, Universal Credit or Support for Mortgage Interest may be eligible.

Iain Stewart, UK Government Minister for Scotland, said: “As we head towards winter, it’s really important that people know about the UK Government support available to help keep their homes warm.

“Cold Weather Payments provide help to those who need it most. They’re paid automatically and people can check online if their local area is due funds.”

To check if you qualify, visit www.gov.uk/cold-weather-payment/eligibility.