UK government confirms £600 payment to help with energy bills

Eithne Gilligan, Head of Policy and Engagement at Age NI said, ''This is welcome news today for older people after a worrying period of delay and uncertainty. One of the key concerns we had for this payment was that it would be delivered quickly, and we understand that payments will begin in January and happen within a short period of weeks, not months.

''During the recent cold snap, we have heard of older people not turning their heating on through fear of not being able to afford it. This is a choice none of us should be facing, least of all those who are frail or immobile. We have issued health warnings over the very serious ill-effects of the cold on older people. We hope this announcement will give older people some certainty to allow them to plan their budget to stay warm and well over the coming weeks.

''One further note of caution: we have been assured that there will be no need to share bank or financial information with anyone, ever, in order to receive this energy payment. Also, there is no need to contact your electricity supplier as the payments will be delivered automatically. We urge older people not to get caught out by devious scammers who may try to find ways to take advantage of this scheme. Those who need your details to deliver this payment will already have them.''