UK households accumulate costs as temperatures hit the negatives
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UK households face cold weather as government subsidies cover only $31 under critical conditions.
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UK households face cold and bills (AP)
As a result of the freezing temperatures that have recently been recorded in several areas of the UK, disadvantaged households will probably receive additional government subsidies to help with increased heating expenses, according to UK media reports on Friday.
The average temperature must drop below 0 degrees Celsius for seven consecutive days in order for a household to be eligible for the Cold Weather Payment of 25 pounds ($31) between November 1 and March 31.
In several regions of the United Kingdom, notably northern England and portions of Wales and Northern Ireland, households have begun applying for this subsidy program, The Guardian noted.
The UK Health Security Agency had issued a level 3 cold weather alert in England until December 12, according to The Guardian, and additional snow and ice warnings have been issued for the days ahead. Some rural areas of the UK were also expected to experience temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius.
The National Energy Action, a UK fuel poverty charity, requested the government offer greater assistance to residents throughout the winter period, in addition to the above-mentioned subsidy for households in the UK with the lowest incomes.
As cited by the newspaper, Adam Scorer, the charity's head said "We will now start to see just how bleak this winter is going to be. Despite the current program of support, the government must step in with more help for those at greatest peril this winter."
Read more: UK: Millions can't afford heating as 'dangerous cold' looms - Guardian
