Millions of people could be paid extra money for fuel as Cold Weather Payments begin.

Poorer pensioners and low-income or vulnerable households, could claim £25 each time temperatures fall below zero for seven days in a row, or are forecast to do so.

Since the scheme began in 2010, £700million has been paid out to people, through 28 million separate payments.

The payment has been increased to £25 and is usually made within a fortnight of a cold snap.

Cold Weather Payment is in addition to Winter Fuel Allowance and Warm Home Discount Scheme is aimed at helping the most vulnerable during the coldest weather.