The MoneySavingExpert founder said a temporary fall in wholesale prices, triggered by the Middle East ceasefire, has caused some fixed tariffs to become cheaper than the April price cap. However, he stressed that these deals may only be available for a short time.

Lewis, who is currently taking a break from social media, returned briefly to share the update, saying the shift in the volatile energy market could “give respite to some”.

He advised anyone on a standard variable tariff — meaning they are currently on the price cap — to check whether switching to a fixed deal could help them avoid the expected July price rise. His team recommends using the Cheap Energy Club comparison tool to see what deals are available.

Why July matters

The Ofgem price cap fell by 6.6% on 1 April, saving a typical household around £117 a year. But analysts expect the cap to rise again in July due to ongoing instability linked to the Middle East conflict.

The price cap limits what suppliers can charge per unit of energy for customers on variable tariffs. It does not apply to fixed deals, meaning households who lock in a tariff now could avoid the July increase — but only if the fixed rate stays below the new cap.

Fixed deals may vanish quickly

Lewis warned that the cheaper fixed tariffs now appearing may be short‑lived. If wholesale prices rise again, suppliers could withdraw or increase the cost of these deals.

MoneySavingExpert said:  

“Energy wholesale rates are spiking due to conflict in the Middle East, meaning many firms have pulled fixed deals, or made them more expensive. Whether you should fix now depends on how risk averse you are and what you think will happen.”

The site added that if the current turmoil eases before July, cheaper fixed deals could return — meaning staying on the price cap might be the better option for some households.

Should you fix? It depends on risk

Lewis has repeatedly said the decision to fix comes down to personal risk tolerance. Fixing locks in your rate for a set period, but if the price cap later drops, you could end up paying more than those on variable tariffs.

MSE’s advice:  

- If the Middle East conflict continues, fixing now could save money.  

- If tensions ease, better deals may appear later — making it safer to stay on the cap for now.  

- Always compare deals before switching.

With the July review approaching and global markets still unstable, Lewis says households should check their options sooner rather than later.

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The tip? Take your own passport photo at home.  

Doing so could save you up to £13 per person, and even more if you’re renewing multiple passports in one go.

‘You can now take your own photo’ — MSE explains how to save

MSE, founded by Martin Lewis, says many people don’t know that the Passport Office now accepts self‑taken digital photos uploaded directly during an online application.

That means no need for:

- Photo booths  

- High‑street photography services  

- Extra charges for printed copies  

These typically cost between £5 and £13, so skipping them is an easy win.

However, MSE warns that 13.5% of applications are delayed because of photo issues, based on figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request — so getting it right matters.

How to take an acceptable passport photo at home

MSE recommends following these steps to avoid delays:

- Use a smartphone — no need for a professional camera  

- Make sure the photo is clear, in focus and in colour  

- Stand against a plain, light background  

- Include your head, shoulders and upper body  

- Ensure no shadows, objects or other people are in the frame  

- Don’t edit or filter the image — the system will crop it for you  

Full official guidelines, including rules for children’s photos, are available on Gov.uk.

When are passport prices rising?

According to the UK Government, passport fees will increase on 8 April 2026.  

You can check current prices on the GOV.UK website.

Who can get a passport for free?

British nationals born on or before 2 September 1929 can apply for or renew a passport free of charge. The Post Office’s Check and Send service is also free for this age group.

Fees still apply if:

- You need a passport urgently  

- You choose a frequent traveller passport (54 pages instead of 34)

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For more money‑saving news visit Pulse Media.

With Easter spending now topping £1.3 billion a year, rising prices and the ongoing cost‑of‑living squeeze are pushing families to look for cheaper ways to celebrate.

Lynn Beattie — known online as Mrs Mummypenny — says crafting decorations and treats at home can save a significant amount of money while doubling as fun activities for children.

The advice comes as some popular Easter eggs have risen by more than 40% per 100g, despite shrinking in size due to soaring cocoa costs.

‘Families still want Easter to feel special’

Lynn said many households are rethinking their traditions:

“Families still want to make Easter special, but there’s a shift towards doing more with less. Crafting, decorating and spending time together is replacing some of the more expensive habits.”

She recently created a full set of Easter decorations and crafts for around £50 using supplies from Temu — a saving of up to 87% compared to average seasonal spending.

Egg‑decorating kits, wreath‑making supplies and bonnet sets can all help recreate classic Easter activities at a fraction of the usual cost.

‘Children remember what you did, not what you spent’

Lynn added:

“Children don’t remember how much you spent — they remember what you did together. Simple things like painting eggs or making decorations are often what make the day special.”

For more news visit Pulse Media.

The TV licence is required for anyone who watches or records live television on any channel, uses BBC iPlayer, or streams live content on apps and devices — including phones, tablets, laptops and games consoles. You don’t need to own a physical TV for the fee to apply.

What you can watch without a TV licence

You do not need a licence for:

- Catch‑up services other than BBC iPlayer (ITVX, All4, My5 etc.)  

- On‑demand shows and films on Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, NOW, Apple TV and others  

- S4C programmes on demand  

- DVDs and Blu‑rays  

- YouTube videos (live or recorded)  

How much the TV licence now costs

- Colour licence: £180 (up from £174.50)  

- Black and white licence: £60.50  

The increase means a colour licence now costs £5.50 more per year — around 46p extra per month.

S4C, which receives all its public funding from the licence fee, will see its budget rise to around £100m in 2026–27, supporting Welsh‑language broadcasting and the wider creative sector.

What happens if you don’t have a licence?

Watching live TV or BBC iPlayer without a valid licence is a criminal offence. TV Licensing carries out regular checks, and anyone caught could face:

- Prosecution  

- A fine of up to £1,000  

Government statement

A spokesperson for the Department for Culture, Media and Sport said the increase ensures the BBC has a “stable financial footing” to continue delivering its public service mission.

They added that the BBC remains the UK’s “most widely used and trusted news outlet”, with 94% of UK adults using BBC services each month.

Who can get a free or reduced TV licence?

Some people may be eligible for discounts:

- Free licences for over‑75s receiving Pension Credit  

- Reduced fees for care home residents  

- Reduced rate for people who are blind or severely sight‑impaired  

The UK average now stands at:

- Petrol: 152.83p per litre  

- Diesel: 182.77p per litre  

That’s a near‑30p gap — the biggest difference ever recorded.

Before the conflict, the gap was around 10p. Now it’s triple that, and analysts expect the divide to keep widening.

This isn’t the first time global instability has pushed up prices. During the height of the Ukraine–Russia war in 2022, UK fuel hit record levels:  

- 191.5p per litre for petrol  

- 199.09p per litre for diesel  

Today, diesel is once again rising faster.

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Why diesel is increasing more quickly than petrol

Several factors are driving the surge:

1. The UK relies heavily on diesel imports

The UK sources petrol and diesel from different parts of the world — and is far more dependent on imported diesel. Any disruption to global supply chains hits diesel prices harder and faster.

2. Diesel has more uses than petrol

Diesel isn’t just for cars and lorries. It’s also used for:

- Heating  

- Power generation  

- Aviation fuel  

- As a substitute for gas in some industries  

That wider demand pushes prices up when global supply tightens.

3. Diesel is more expensive to refine

Diesel is thicker and denser than petrol, and the refining process is more complex. When crude oil prices rise, diesel becomes disproportionately more expensive to produce.

4. Wholesale prices dictate what drivers pay

The RAC says pump prices are shaped by:

- Global crude oil prices  

- Refinery capacity  

- The pound–dollar exchange rate (fuel is traded in USD)  

- Distribution costs  

- Retailer margins  

- Fuel duty  

- VAT  

When wholesale diesel prices spike, forecourt prices follow quickly.

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Latest supermarket petrol prices

- Morrisons: 149.0p  

- Asda: 147.1p  

- Tesco: 147.1p  

- Sainsbury’s: 146.9p  

Latest petrol prices from other brands

- Essar: 149.9p  

- JET: 152.0p  

- Murco: 151.4p  

- Esso: 152.7p  

- Texaco: 152.6p  

- BP: 153.4p  

- Shell: 156.1p  

- Asda Express: 153.4p  

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Latest supermarket diesel prices

- Morrisons: 179.4p  

- Asda: 174.7p  

- Tesco: 175.1p  

- Sainsbury’s: 172.4p  

Latest diesel prices from other brands

- Essar: 179.9p  

- JET: 183.0p  

- Murco: 181.9p  

- Esso: 183.0p  

- Texaco: 184.3p  

- BP: 183.6p  

- Asda Express: 182.2p  

- Shell: 183.3p  

Anyone visiting a Morrisons Café can order a free Kellogg’s Breakfast, which includes a bowl of cereal and a portion of fruit. Customers can choose Corn Flakes or Rice Krispies, served with dairy or non‑dairy milk, plus a free apple or banana.

The initiative runs across England, Scotland and Wales during the Easter break and beyond, helping families manage rising food costs when children are home from school. Morrisons already operates its Kids Eat Free scheme all year round, allowing children to enjoy a free hot meal with any adult meal purchased.

Holiday hunger concerns rising

Research from Kellogg’s and Morrisons shows:

- 1 in 3 parents struggle to feed their children during school holidays  

- The figure rises to 2 in 5 among parents aged 25–34  

- 8 in 10 parents worry about food lasting until their next shop  

- Children aged 5–11 ask for food roughly every two hours during holidays  

- 77% of parents say they spend more on food when school is out  

“We know holidays bring extra pressure”

Matt Khan, Senior Trader for Morrisons Café, said the supermarket wants to support families during a financially difficult time.

> “We know the school holidays can bring extra pressures for families, from food costs to keeping routines in place. We’re here to help by opening our Café spaces up for Breakfast Clubs to give families a chance to enjoy a simple, balanced breakfast together.”

How to get a free Kellogg’s Breakfast

The Breakfast Clubs run across all school holidays, including March 30 to April 19.

To claim the offer, customers simply order a Kellogg’s Breakfast at the till in any Morrisons Café. Each free breakfast includes:

- 1 portion pack of Corn Flakes (24g) or Rice Krispies (22g)  

- 125ml of milk or milk alternative  

- A free apple or banana  

There is a limit of one free breakfast per customer per day.

The senior officials briefed MPs on the Access to Work programme. This is a grant initiative to offer additional workplace support for people with a health condition or disability, to help them to carry out their job. Applicants can receive up to £69,260 annually in grants through the initiative, which can cover items such as specialist equipment or a support worker. The typical grant award amounts to £4,000 per year, or £10,500 for those requiring a support worker, the equivalent of almost £200 a week.

Both demand for and expenditure on the programme have doubled since the 2018/2019 financial year, with the DWP allocating £321million to the initiative in 2024/2025. The processing time for applications currently stands at up to 37 weeks.

Nevertheless, the committee heard that the DWP can expedite applications. DWP permanent secretary Peter Schofield, said: "If you have a job that you are ready to start within four weeks, we prioritise it.

"If there is some other reason why it needs to be prioritised, we prioritise it." The representatives said they are making headway in reducing case processing times.

Mr Schofield said one significant shift they have observed concerns the types of medical conditions for which individuals are seeking the support.

Different health conditions

He said: "What we have seen is not only a doubling of claims but a really dramatic change in the nature of the claims coming in and of the health conditions that we are talking about-more mental health conditions and more conditions around neurodiversity. There is not a standard way of looking at what would be required in terms of reasonable adjustments."

Reasonable adjustments are modifications that employers are legally obliged to implement so that people with health conditions can perform their duties. This might involve supplying physical equipment or changing your working practices.

Mr Schofield said: "You have to think about each of those conditions individually. They could be fluctuating conditions; they could be conditions that impact in particular circumstances in a different way.

"Obviously, the nature of the workplace has changed dramatically as well. To get this right - to get the right decisions - is a really complex piece of work, and we have got to get it right."

Who could qualify for Access to Work?

DWP guidance clarifies that to be eligible for Access to Work funding, you must have "a physical or mental health condition or disability that means you need support to do your job or get to and from work".

A formal medical diagnosis is not required to submit an application for this support. These seven types of health conditions could qualify you for the funding:

• A physical disability, such as being hard of hearing or using a wheelchair
• A learning disability or related condition, for instance Down's syndrome
• A developmental condition, like autism spectrum disorder
• Conditions like ADHD or dyslexia
• An illness such as diabetes or epilepsy
• A temporary condition, like a broken leg
• A mental health condition, for example anxiety or depression.

You can apply for the support on the Government website.

The authority had awarded businessman Michael Border a lease for the Alpine-style building in 2023, and he spoke of plans for a cafe-restaurant, a street food kitchen and an external serving area for drinks and ice cream. Community activities were also in the offing to position the building as a real local hub.

Mr Border, a joint director at Tifa Property, said at the time: “It’s great to be taking it over. It was sad to see it in disrepair. The feedback has been really good. People want this to be something again and not fall into disrepair, it’s a landmark.”

Grade two-listed Swiss Cottage was badly damaged in an arson attack in 2010 and, despite being restored externally, has proved a hard sell despite its fine south-facing views across the park towards Swansea Bay.

A fair bit of refurbishment work is still needed internally but Mr Border, speaking in 2023, said this was “nothing too troubling from a build perspective”. He added that heritage funding would be needed to make it viable. 

Council leader Rob Stewart, when asked by a group of oppostion councillors last week why there had been no development at the cottage, said the prospective tenant had formally withdrawn “notwithstanding considerable support from council officers”.

A council spokesman said it had provided considerable support to help restore the building’s exterior. “While it’s disappointing that the current leaseholder at Swiss Cottage has decided to surrender the lease, we remain committed to finding a suitable sustainable and will now look at alternative options to achieve that,” he said.

The cottage, built in 1826, was designed by Peter Frederick Robinson, who also designed nearby Sketty Hall for the Vivian family in the early 19th Century. Mr Robinson had visited Switzerland and been impressed by the timber-built houses with balconies and external stairs.

An inscription in German on the front of building translates as, ‘Live that you may live again’.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service contacted Tifa Property to speak to Mr Border but no-one responded at the time of going to press.

Yet many recipients might be unaware that certain changes in circumstances require notification to the DWP, as failure to do so could affect their eligibility or payment amounts and, in certain instances, result in penalty charges or court proceedings.

Almost 20 different changes require reporting, including acquiring a new mobile telephone number or email address, transferring to another bank account, relocating home, and fluctuations in rental costs.

According to the Daily Record, DWP guidance on GOV.UK warns: "You could be taken to court or have to pay a penalty if you give wrong information or do not report a change in your circumstances."

Change of circumstance you need to report to DWP

DWP guidance on GOV.UK advises that you must report any changes in your circumstances promptly to ensure you receive the correct monthly amount. It emphasises reporting changes 'as soon as they happen' because delays 'may result in receiving too much money and the need to repay it'.

DWP adds: "Changes in your circumstances can affect how much you’re paid for your whole assessment period - not just from the date you report them."

Changes can include:

1. Finding a job
2. Finishing a job
3. Having a child
4. Moving in with your partner
5. Starting to care for a child
6. Starting to care for a disabled person
7. Your child stopping or restarting education or training, if they’re aged 16 to 19
8. Changing your mobile number
9. Changing your email address
10. Moving to a new address
11. Going outside Great Britain for any length of time, if you live there
12. Going outside Northern Ireland for any length of time, if you live there
13. Changing your bank details
14. Your rent going up or down
15. Changes to your health condition
16. Becoming too ill to work or meet your work coach
17. Changes to your earnings (only if you’re self-employed)
18. Changes to your savings, investments and how much money you have
19. Changes to your immigration status, if you’re not a British citizen

Reporting a change

DWP states that claimants can notify a change of circumstances by logging into their online Universal Credit account.

If you get a job or increase the hours you work

Use a benefits calculator or consult your work coach to understand how gaining employment or a higher income could impact your Universal Credit claim.

Most employers will handle reporting your earnings. You typically only need to report your monthly income if you're self-employed.

If you have been paid too much by DWP

You may have to repay the money if you:

• did not report a change straight away
• gave wrong information
• were overpaid by mistake

Additional details about benefit overpayments can be found on GOV.UK here.

The latest statistics from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show the State Pension currently provides a regular financial income for 13 million older people across the country. This payment is available for those who have reached the UK Government’s eligible retirement age, which is currently 66 for both men and women, and have paid at least 10 years' worth of NI contributions.

As reported by the Daily Record, it's important to be aware that the age of retirement will rise to 67 from April. Many people approaching retirement age may not be aware that to receive the full New State Pension payment of £230.25 each week, they will need around 35 years’ worth of NI contributions.

This is just an average number of years as some people may have been “contracted out” and will need more NI contributions to qualify for the full amount - you can find out more about this on GOV.UK. Workplace and private pensions will help bolster the State Pension in retirement, but many people may be relying on the contributory benefit as their only income in retirement, so it’s crucial to be aware of how many years you will need to make NI contributions in order to get the maximum payout.

The State Pension age is also set to increase from 67 to 68 in the mid-2040s. If you are worried about how many years you need to work - if retirement is a long way off, or just a couple of years away - the guide below should help you understand how National Insurance contributions affect the amount of State Pension you will be paid.

How to get any New State Pension payment

You will need at least 10 qualifying years on your National Insurance record to qualify for any State Pension, but they don’t have to be 10 qualifying years in a row.

This means for 10 years at least one or more of the following applied to you:

• You were working and paid National Insurance contributions
• You were getting National Insurance credits for example if you were unemployed, ill, a parent or a carer
• You were paying voluntary National Insurance contributions

If you have lived or worked abroad you might still be able to get some New State Pension.

You might also qualify if you have paid married women’s or widow’s reduced rate contributions - find out more about this on the GOV.UK website here.

How to get full New State Pension payments

The first thing to understand is the term 'full' means the maximum amount of New State Pension a person can receive.

You will need around 35 qualifying years to receive the full New State Pension if you do not have a National Insurance record before 6 April 2016 - this may be more if you were 'contracted out', find out more here.

For people who have contributed between 10 and 35 years, they are entitled to a portion of the new State Pension, but not the full amount unless they buy additional NI years.

Qualifying years if you are working

When you are working you pay National Insurance and get a qualifying year if:

• You’re employed and earning over £242 a week from one employer
• You’re self-employed and paying NI contributions

You might not pay National Insurance contributions because you’re earning less than £242 a week. You may still get a qualifying year if you earn between £123 and £242 a week from one employer - find out more here.

Qualifying years if you are not working

You may get National Insurance credits if you cannot work - for example because of illness or disability, or if you’re a carer or you’re unemployed.

You can get National Insurance credits if you:

• Claim Child Benefit for a child under 12 (or under 16 before 2010)
• Get Jobseeker’s Allowance or Employment and Support Allowance
• Receive Carer’s Allowance

If you are not working or getting National Insurance credits

You might be able to pay voluntary National Insurance contributions if you’re not in one of these groups but want to increase your State Pension amount. Find out more on the GOV.UK website here.

What if there are gaps in your National Insurance record?

You can have gaps in your NI record and still get the full New State Pension. You can get a State Pension statement which will tell you how much State Pension you may get. You can then apply for a National Insurance statement from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to check if your record has gaps.

If you have gaps in your National Insurance record that would prevent you from getting the full New State Pension, you may be able to:

• Get National InsuranceI credits
• Make voluntary National Insurance contributions

Check your National Insurance record on GOV.UK here.

Check your State Pension age

Check your State Pension age to find out when you can retire and claim State pension using the free online tool at GOV.UK here.

This will tell you:

• When you will reach State Pension age
• Your Pension Credit qualifying age

 A funding workshop is being held to support charities and good causes.

The scheme offers £20,000 this year to support community repair projects across North Wales.

Mr Rowlands said: "I have been fortunate enough to visit the North Wales site at Parc Adfer and sponsor an event in the Senedd to highlight the work which is being done to reduce waste across Wales and I am delighted to support the Repair Café initiative.

"These days it is all too easy to replace rather than repair items and I am really pleased to see enfinium offering funds to encourage Repair Cafés near their site in Flintshire.

"It is really important that we continue to reduce recycling waste and Repair Cafés offer everyone the opportunity to do their bit to help this cause."

Enfinium’s Deeside site processes black bin waste from across Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy, Denbighshire, and Flintshire.

This is the third year of the Repair Café Support Fund, which has already distributed more than £35,000 to 22 Repair Cafés since March 2024.

The funding supports both new and existing Repair Cafés in expanding and improving their operations, as well as supporting the launch of new Repair Cafés.

Mike Maudsley, chief executive at Enfinium, said: "By empowering communities to repair rather than replace, Repair Cafés play an important role in reducing waste and advancing the circular economy from the bottom up, as well as forming an integral part of the local communities where we operate.

"As an operator committed to managing unrecyclable waste in the most circular way possible, we at enfinium are proud to continue to support these impactful local initiatives keep waste out of landfill for another year."

Repair Cafés offer free repairs of everyday household items such as toasters, hoovers and bicycles.

The not-for-profit projects help reduce landfill waste and support the circular economy by encouraging the repair and reuse of items rather than disposal.

Research shows the environmental benefits can be significant.

For example, maintaining a single television for an additional seven years results in a carbon emission saving of 657kg.

The Enfinium fund is available to Repair Cafés located within 30 miles of one of its facilities.

Cafés in Flintshire, Conwy, Denbighshire, Gwynedd, and Anglesey are eligible to apply for the 2026 funding round, with applications open until May 31, 2026.

Anwyl Homes had hoped to transform the former Penmorfa site on West Shore into apartments.

Proposals for redevelopment of Penmorfa were being worked on. A consultation process was due to start in spring 2021, with a full planning application scheduled for submission that summer.

Building costs and other issues caused setbacks, and Anwyl Homes ended up putting the site up for sale with Legat Owen, with hopes of transforming it into residential apartments or a healthcare-related development.

However, the property is now off the market.

Anwyl Homes confirmed the site is not being actively marketed at present, but a range of options are being considered.

A spokesperson for Anwyl said: “We continue to consider a range of options for the site and remain committed to ensuring the site is redeveloped.”

Penmorfa was built on West Shore in 1862 for the father of Alice Liddell. It was her second home and later became the Gogarth Abbey Hotel.

In the 1970s, scenes for TV adverts for PG Tips were filmed at the hotel, using chimps dressed as humans.

In 2004, designs were released for more than 25 apartments incorporating the Penmorfa hotel. Despite a campaign to save the venue, the hotel was reduced to rubble in 2008 by Anwyl to make way for flats.

In 2017, Artist’s impressions, for 51 single and two bedroom apartments on the former Penmorfa site, were put forward by Anwyl Homes.

In 2018, Anwyl Homes said works were underway to adapt the scheme and planning permission would be requested. 

Nothing has ever been built on the site.

The long 900-year lease was on the market for £2,250,000 with Legat Owen.

Legat Owen told the Pulse Media in January 2024: "We are presently in advanced negotiations with a buyer, having received interest in the main from developers looking to deliver a high-quality residential apartment scheme on the site."

It is understood the sale fell through.

Ministers say the £15m investment — jointly funded by the Welsh Government and Carmarthenshire County Council — has delivered new sustainable business units at Parc Gelli Werdd in Cross Hands and a second scheme now under construction at Beechwood Industrial Estate in Llandeilo.

According to the Welsh Government, Parc Gelli Werdd’s 26 “state‑of‑the‑art” workshops and offices are already demonstrating “strong market demand” for low‑carbon premises. The Government says the site includes an energy‑management system allowing tenants to control electricity use for cost efficiencies, alongside high‑performance insulation and solar panels designed to reduce running costs and environmental impact.

Officials say the development is around 70% let, with further enquiries being considered for the remaining units.

The Welsh Government also says five new energy‑efficient industrial units are being built at Beechwood Industrial Estate. The scheme, due for completion in June, is described by ministers as being designed to meet a “Net Zero carbon in‑operation target” and will include electric vehicle charging points.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans said businesses consistently highlight the need for modern, flexible space.

“Businesses tell us how access to modern business spaces is crucial to helping them expand and grow,” she said. “Both of these developments in Carmarthenshire deliver to exceptional environmental standards and will reduce operational costs for occupying businesses whilst minimising environmental impact.”

Carmarthenshire County Council says the partnership is helping create high‑quality space for local firms. Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture and Tourism Cllr Hazel Evans said the new units will support business growth in the county.

“Through collaborative working with Welsh Government, these energy‑efficient commercial units will provide fantastic, flexible spaces for businesses in Carmarthenshire to thrive,” she said.

The community grant scheme awards up to £1,500, with shortlisted projects going forward to a customer vote in participating Tesco stores. Shoppers receive a blue token and can vote by placing it in the in-store unit for the cause they want to support. Each funding round features three local projects, with grants awarded based on the number of tokens received.

This year, Tesco is particularly keen to hear from initiatives with a clear food focus, including breakfast clubs, holiday food provision, access to healthy snacks for youth groups, community pantries, cookery and nutrition sessions, and food growing projects that help children learn where food comes from.

The call for applications comes as the latest Government diet survey shows that fewer than 1 in 10 children and young people aged 11–18 meet the recommended 5-a-day, with 11–18-year-olds eating an average of around 2.9 portions of fruit and vegetables per day. Tesco believes every child should have the opportunity to enjoy healthy food and is committed to backing practical projects that make a difference locally.

Claire De Silva, Head of Community at Tesco, said: “Every child deserves the chance to enjoy healthy food and build the foundations for a healthier future, we want to support the brilliant schools and community groups in Wales helping children and young people access nutritious food.

“Whether that’s a breakfast club, a pantry, cookery sessions or a project that helps children grow and try new foods, we’d encourage local organisations to apply—and we’d love shoppers to get involved when the customer vote comes to their local store.”

Already across Wales, a number of local causes have benefited from the Stronger Starts blue token initiative, helping to improve children’s access to healthier food and nutrition education, including Prestatyn primary school, Ysgol Melyd.

Teacher, Tom Herd, said: “Our school were lucky enough to receive the Groundwork UK Tesco Grant to enhance our vegetable garden.

“Not only has it allowed us to do this, it has also brought us closer to the community and allowed us to give something back when providing the local foodbank with a range of produce.”

For more information and about how to apply, visit the Tesco Stronger Starts webpage.

That said, vehicles equipped with three ISOFIX mounting points have become increasingly common in recent years, and here Jack Evans highlights some of the best options available.

Skoda Superb

The Skoda Superb appears purpose-built for family life. Its generous boot provides ample luggage capacity, and buyers can choose between hatchback or the even more spacious estate variants. There's also an excellent selection of engines available.

From an ISOFIX perspective, the Superb offers three separate mounting points - two positioned in the rear seats and an additional one at the front passenger seat. This certainly provides added versatility for families.

Hyundai Santa Fe

The substantial Santa Fe has remained a mainstay of Hyundai's lineup for many years, though the latest generation has arrived with what is arguably one of the most eye-catching designs to enter the automotive market. Thanks to its hybrid powertrains, the Santa Fe also delivers impressive efficiency considering its dimensions. From a practical standpoint, the Santa Fe accommodates up to seven occupants and actually provides four ISOFIX mounting points, making it ideal for larger families.

Kia EV9

Kia has been performing strongly with its electric vehicles recently, and the EV9 serves as the manufacturer's flagship battery-powered SUV. It offers a range of up to 349 miles, and with 350kW charging capability, it can charge from 10 to 80% in just 24 minutes.

Similar to the Santa Fe, it features an impressive four ISOFIX child seat mounting points, making it perfect for transporting larger families or groups of children.

Volkswagen ID.Buzz

The spacious ID.Buzz appears to be an ideal family-friendly electric vehicle. Inspired by the classic Volkswagen 'bus', the Buzz offers plenty of character alongside a versatile and roomy interior. It's available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, as well as five-, six-, and seven-seater configurations.

It comes equipped with four ISOFIX child seat mounting points as standard. Thanks to the Buzz's generous interior space and convenient sliding doors, installing those seats will be considerably easier compared to more traditional vehicles.

Land Rover Discovery

For those seeking something more robust, the Land Rover Discovery remains an excellent option. Not only does it accommodate up to seven passengers, but it's also loaded with technology, including numerous off-road capabilities that'll ensure you reach your destination regardless of conditions.

The wide-opening doors make fitting a child seat somewhat easier, and it boasts an remarkable five ISOFIX mounting points. This is actually the highest number available in any vehicle currently on the market.

Citroen C5 Aircross

The Citroen C5 Aircross has long been recognised for delivering the sort of comfort that enhances daily motoring. Thanks to its sophisticated suspension system, the C5 Aircross effortlessly absorbs potholes and rough surfaces, ensuring a smooth journey for all passengers.

ISOFIX child seat anchor points are fitted to both outer rear seats as well as the front passenger seat. Built with durable materials throughout, the C5 Aircross is well-equipped to handle the demands of family life.

Cupra Leon

As a more conventional hatchback, the Cupra Leon represents the type of vehicle that has been transporting families reliably for generations. This latest model, however, comes generously equipped as standard and, staying true to Cupra's character, delivers a more dynamic driving experience than many comparable rivals. The boot capacity is substantial, providing ample space for the weekly shop or luggage for family trips.

The £150 rebate will be applied to eligible households' energy bills each winter for the remainder of the decade. Following an expansion last year, the scheme now supports approximately six million families.

Households in England and Wales who are recipients of a qualifying means-tested benefit will be automatically included in the discount. But this is only if their energy supplier serves at least 1,000 customers.

Miliband said: "Tackling the affordability crisis is the government’s number one priority. That is why we are today confirming to millions of eligible families across the country that they will receive the £150 Warm Home Discount every winter for the rest of the decade.

"That will give families much-needed peace of mind that they will continue to receive vital support, as we take action to bring down bills for good." See the full list below of all the people who are set to receive the £150 help each winter.

Full list of everyone eligible for the £150 support

The Warm Home Discount provides a one-off £150 rebate on electricity bills for eligible households in England, Scotland, and Wales. Most qualifying households in England and Wales get the discount automatically.

Letters are usually sent to eligible recipients between October and January. If you haven't received one by mid-January 2026, call the Warm Home Discount Helpline at 0800 030 9322 before the February 28, 2026 deadline.

See the official GOV.UK online eligibility checker for more information. To qualify, you (or your partner) must meet the following as of the qualifying date (24 August 2025):

• Supplier: Your energy provider must participate in the scheme.
• Billing: Your name (or your partner's) must be on the electricity bill.
• Benefits: You must receive at least one of the following: Pension Credit: Either the Guarantee Credit or Savings Credit element. Universal Credit: This is now a primary qualifier for many. Income Support. Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA). Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA). Housing Benefit. Child or Working Tax Credits (though many have transitioned to Universal Credit).

You are still eligible if you use prepayment meters; your supplier will typically send a top-up voucher by post, email, or text. Regarding park homes, residents can apply for the discount through the Charis Grants website. Participating energy suppliers include:

• British Gas (includes Scottish Gas)
• E (Gas and Electricity)
• E.ON Next (includes Sainsbury’s Energy)
• Ecotricity
• EDF Energy
• Fuse Energy
• Good Energy
• 100Green (formerly Green Energy UK)
• Home Energy
• London Power
• Octopus Energy (includes Affect Energy, Bulb Energy, and Co-op Energy)
• Outfox the Market
• OVO (includes Boost)
• Rebel Energy
• ScottishPower
• So Energy
• Tomato Energy
• TruEnergy
• Tulo Energy
• Utilita
• Utility Warehouse

What have officials said about the extended scheme?

Richard Neudegg, director of regulation at Uswitch.com, said: "Extending the Warm Home Discount for the rest of the decade gives some certainty on this vital support for vulnerable households. Energy bills are still significantly higher than pre-crisis levels, and the news that the discount will be ongoing will give millions of families reassurance that help will be there each winter, not just in the short-term.

"While this commitment is welcome, delivery of affordable clean energy will be essential to bring energy costs down for all households, including the most vulnerable, sustainably for the long term. Anyone struggling to pay their bills should always contact their supplier, as there may be help, schemes or grants available."

A separate initiative will reduce the average household bill by £150 from April, through the abolition of the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme. Miliband stated that tackling the affordability crisis is the government's top priority, confirming the ongoing vital support for families to provide peace of mind.

Industry representatives praised the long-term commitment. Energy UK’s Ned Hammond noted that the confirmation offers continuing vital support, particularly following the recent expansion. He also expressed a desire to work with the government on future adjustments to improve targeting and tiered assistance for those most in need.

Matt Copeland of National Energy Action welcomed the five-year continuation for low-income households and stressed the importance of maintaining support for energy advice and for people outside the benefits system. "The five-year continuation of the Warm Home Discount is welcome news for low-income households and provides support that extends beyond this parliament," he said.

"Alongside energy advice and wider support to help maximise people's incomes, directly reducing energy bills can be a vital lifeline for vulnerable people who cannot keep their homes adequately warm. Six million households across Great Britain now receive the discount and the revised eligibility criteria give greater certainty about who will benefit each year.

"It is also essential that support is continuing for energy advice and for measures that reach people who are not within the benefits system. Without this, many households who cannot be identified through government data matching will remain without the help they need."

The 37-year-old says she was left "speechless" after inspecting the shoes to find there was mud on the laces, sole and edges and the branded printed label was coming off. After immediately contacting customer care she was "gutted" to allegedly be told she could either return the item for inspection at the warehouse to see if they believed it was "her fault" or take them to the dry cleaners.

The civil servant says she believes it is "unfair" that she might lose out on the £90 she paid after a discount, and that she had to pay £3.95 for the return, and is unsure whether she will get her money back.

Now she vows to avoid ASOS as much as possible and is hoping for a formal apology. Kayleigh, who lives in Portsmouth, Hampshire, said: "Obviously, I'm disappointed to be receiving this. I decided to buy the trainers off ASOS because it was the particular colour I wanted and I couldn't find it anywhere other than ASOS.

"I was speechless [when the shoes arrived]. I looked at them and it took me a couple of minutes to process what I was actually looking at because it was shocking.

"It was clear that they had been used previously. There was mud on the laces and the sole and all around the edges of the trainers inside. It was clear they'd been used enough that the branded print was coming up from the insole.

"There were hairs inside the actual shoe and stones wedged in the sole of the shoe as well. It doesn't matter if you're spending £20 or £120 on a pair of trainers they should come in a new condition as advertised. I've had cleaner shoes off of vinted - and they're second-hand."

After contacting customer care, the civil servant says she was told she could either return the shoes for inspection and potentially get a refund or go and get them dry cleaned. She believes she deserves a full refund.

Kayleigh said: "He said my only two options were to return them for a refund or go get them dry cleaned and they will reimburse the cost. I literally nearly fell off the sofa.

"I thought ', Is this real?' Has this actually just happened? Later in the conversation he said 'if you want to get them dry cleaned, you need to go and get a quote on headed paper, then send that to us and we'll let you know whether we're going to pay or not'.

"It was the comment that 'you need to return them to be inspected at the warehouse so we can deem that this is not your fault'. I said, 'Why was that not done prior to when it was sent out to me?' They can't implement rules on one person and not everyone. "It's pretty unfair I might be losing out on £90. It's really horrible.

"It's the fact they take £3.95 off of your refund for returning the parcel as well. This is what annoys me even more is the fact that they're going to do that.

"I'm absolutely gutted. I've ordered from ASOS quite a bit and I've never had this problem. If i could help it I would not shop at ASOS again. Now my only choice is to wait for the trainers to be returned before they even look into how I was treated."

ASOS declined to comment but said they were reaching out to the customer. Nike have been approached for a comment.

The retailer, which operates 40 stores nationwide, has reportedly lodged a notice of intention to appoint administrators. Last February, Quiz shut 23 outlets amid declining consumer interest and lacklustre Christmas trading figures.

The Ramzan family, who founded the bran in 1993, previously placed the company into administration before securing a pre-pack arrangement that enabled them to repurchase the remaining business.

"We have taken the decision to file a Notice of Intention to provide us the time we need to explore all financing options. In the meantime, [it's] business as usual," a Quiz spokesperson told The Telegraph.

The development follows two prominent high street names entering administration this month. The Original Factory Shop collapsed into administration, placing its 137 outlets and 1,180 workers in jeopardy.

Meanwhile, Claire's, employing 1,355 people across the UK, went into administration on Monday. Both retailers had previously undergone restructuring processes and were acquired by investment firm Modella Capital last year.

In the Autumn Budget 2025, Labour unveiled plans to introduce a High Value Council Tax Surcharge, commonly referred to as the 'mansion tax'. Set to take effect from April 2028, homeowners with properties valued above £2million will face an additional annual charge on top of their existing council tax obligations.

The supplementary charge will vary between £2,500 and £7,500, with the maximum amount applicable to properties worth £5million and above. Jonathan Russell, chief executive of the Valuation Office Agency (VOA), recently appeared before MPs to explain the work his team is doing ahead of the change.

The VOA operates under HMRC's umbrella and is responsible for providing valuations for some 28 million residential properties across England and Wales. Mr Russell was asked about how the agency will conduct valuations to decide who is liable for the charge.

'We are looking at the data'

He said: "We already have the basic valuation that we use to value properties for council tax banding, which was done in 1991. We are looking at the data we hold already to make sure that it is up to date and accurate.

"We will also be looking at open-source data from the Office for National Statistics and the Land Registry, sales data and stamp duty land tax data. We will be looking at those properties that are in the higher element of current banding because of property data and then seeing how that translates to other data, matching the two and coming up with a valuation.

"We have already done some work on that." He said that the group will inform people about this work. Mr Russell said: "When we are doing the valuations, we will make sure that we are public about it.

"We will go out and tell people how we are doing the valuation and the criteria that we are using. At the end of the day, we want people to have confidence in the valuations that we produce.

"We do not want there to be appeals because that is in no one's interest. We want to make sure we are open, transparent and clear about the data that we are using, how we have applied it and how we have come to the valuation."

'It requires legislation'

The agency head said the group will also consider if a property has changed in a way that could affect its valuation, such as if a house has been extended or divided into two. He told the MPs: "We look at that type of data.

"It is looking at the valuation, rather than in 1991, probably at a date this year, which has yet to be set because it requires legislation." Mr Russell said that approximately 200,000 properties are expected to fall within the scope of the new charge.

He said that "a large number" of these homes will be situated in London, the south east and the east of England, while certain local authorities will have none whatsoever.

Mr Russell was asked if a large number of properties would require revaluation to determine if they meet the £2million threshold. He said: "We will probably look at houses that may have an indicative valuation of £1.5 million to make sure we are not missing anything.

"If houses are clearly above the upper level, which is £5 million, we will not spend too much time looking at those either. We will be looking at the ones in between those two levels to make sure we get the banding absolutely accurate.

"It is what we do. For example, every year we will value somewhere in the region of 200,000 houses that have been newly built. We do that anyway.

"We are valuing those built today at 1991. Within that 200,000, there will be some houses that meet the criteria for the high-value council tax surcharge."

Addressing the issue of how people will be able to appeal the charge, he explained: "On the appeals process, it is probably worth pointing out that the process for the high-value council tax surcharge will require legislation and consultation.

"I know there are plans to do the consultation in the next few months. That consultation will look at, for example, reliefs, appeals, how you might challenge your council tax banding, the scope and complex areas around ownership because the billing will not be on the occupier; it will be on the owner of the property.

"Again, there will be consultation around that. That will include how you might appeal it. Again, that has not been set out yet. That is still a work in process."

The total council tax bill for residents across the counties of Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire and Powys comprises the county council portion of the council tax, the Dyfed-Powys Police precept, and individual town or community council precepts.

During the January 23 meeting of the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Panel, convened at County Hall, Haverfordwest, Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn proposed increasing the precept by 7.474 per cent for the 2026-'27 financial year.

This would represent a £26.95 rise for the average Band D property, bringing that component to £387.63 for an average band D property in 2024-'25. 

Properties subject to a council tax premium, such as second homes, also face that premium on the police precept, resulting in proportionally higher bills for this element.

The force receives 56 per cent of its funding, approximately £93m, from the precept.

The previous year witnessed an 8.6 per cent rise in the force's precept.

During the meeting, Pembroke county councillor Cllr Jonathan Grimes enquired: "what can council tax-payers expect to see in terms of their council tax payments, what will they see in terms of value for money?".

Mr Llywelyn stated it would support efficiencies enabling a "more visible and accessible police service". Members supported the proposed 7.47 per cent rise.

This year's almost eight per cent hike comes after a public consultation.

Local councils are expected to determine their council tax rates in the coming months.

Ceredigion is presently considering a 4.75 per cent rise in its portion of the total council tax bill.

We will know the proposed council tax rises in every area of Wales in the coming weeks and months.

He subsequently posted a clip of the episode to his X account, with the caption: "Crucial warning if you've booked or are booking a holiday abroad. Get travel insurance ASAB." Martin explains that ASAB stands for 'as soon as possible after booking.

People living in the UK took about 94.6 million trips to other countries in 2024, which is a big jump from 86.2 million trips in 2023, based on information from the Office for National Statistics. Data also reveals that 59% of UK residents went on a holiday outside the country in the last year, with many choosing to travel overseas - showing millions in the UK book holidays abroad every year.

Securing travel insurance is a major part of booking a holiday. It frequently covers issues that arise before you travel, such as illnesses, redundancy, jury duty, so purchasing late can leave you uninsured for those pre-departure incidents. Martin advises buying single-trip policies now and setting the cover dates to align with your trip.

He said: "If you've booked or are booking a holiday, a hugely important warning for you. Make sure you get your travel insurance ASAB, as soon as you've booked. And if you've already booked, that means just do it now. Just get it as quickly as possible. Because half the point of travel insurance is covering you for things that may happen before you go that stop you going."

"And if you leave it until the last minute to get your travel insurance and something happens, well, you won't be covered. So what does having it in place ASAB mean? Well, if it's a single-trip policy, it's really easy. You, let's say you're going away August 1 to August 8, you get a single-trip policy now from August 1-8. You give those cover dates, you pay for it now, you've got your policy in place."

For annual or multi-trip policies, he emphasises the need to ensure the policy is active from today (or continuous) so that any incident now is covered. Martin also advises people against purchasing one that only commences later on.

He explained: "If it's an annual policy that covers all your trips away in the year, you want to always have a live annual policy. So if you don't have an annual policy, you get one now, but you need to have the start date be today. You don't leave it until August 1 and try and book it in advance."

Martin also highlights that if your existing annual policy expires before your trip, purchase a new one to begin immediately after the previous one ends to prevent any gaps. Many annual policies can only be bought up to approximately 90 days in advance, and policy wordings differ, so it's essential to review terms and exclusions.

Martin explained: "If you already have a policy and that is in place until the end of your holiday, you're fine. But if your current annual policy stops before your holiday date, let's say it stops in April and you're going on holiday in August, you will want to get a new policy that starts the day after your old policy ends. So you have continuous cover going all the way through.

"Now you can generally only get annual policies up to 90 days in advance. So if something were to happen now for a holiday in August for a cover that ends in April, most, not all, annual travel policies will cover you even though the holiday is after their end date, if the incident happens now, which stops you from getting it. But as soon as you can, you get cover that butts up against it."

Why is travel insurance vital, and what protection does it offer?

Travel insurance is essential because it shields you from significant, unforeseen financial burdens whilst you're away. This encompasses costly medical expenses if you fall ill or sustain an injury abroad, needing to cancel your journey, and managing lost or stolen baggage.

It ensures you can access emergency medical assistance and even be repatriated home if necessary. This provides peace of mind should something unfortunate occur, such as an accident or illness.

Additionally, it offers protection if your trip gets disrupted or if you misplace your belongings. The extent of your coverage largely hinges on which travel insurance policy you purchase, but most will include:

• Medical emergencies
• Trip cancellation
• Trip interruption/curtailment
• Baggage and personal belongings
• Personal money and documents
• Missed departure
• Personal liability

Always consult your policy document to check the limits, exclusions (such as dangerous activities or pre-existing conditions), and regulations. You must declare these; failure to do so could render your cover void. For individuals residing in the UK, a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is separate and does not replace travel insurance.

Recipients of PIP who receive the enhanced rate mobility component have the option to allocate some or all of their payment towards leasing a new vehicle, wheelchair-accessible transport, scooter, or powered wheelchair via the Motability Scheme.

The DWP was recently urged to "consider the benefits to which PIP is a gateway, such as Motability, disability premiums, Council Tax discounts and Blue Badges". Addressing MPs, Sir Stephen stated: "We have made it clear that we will co-produce our review of the PIP assessment with disabled people and representatives of disability organisations."

He added: "The review will cover the assessment for the mobility component, which leads on to the Motability scheme, and other entitlements to which PIP is a gateway." Recent statistics from Motability Operations - the organisation operating the transformative Motability Scheme - reveal there are currently 815,000 customers nationwide.

Meanwhile, more than 3.2 million Blue Badge permits are currently in circulation across the UK. Data from the Department for Work and Pensions reveals that just over three million Personal Independence Payment claimants are in receipt of either the standard or enhanced rate of the mobility component.

This figure comprises 1,961,029 people receiving the enhanced payment of £77.05 weekly, alongside 1,111,219 on the standard rate of £29.20 per week. Presently, more than 3.8 million people are claiming PIP throughout England and Wales.

During a parliamentary inquiry to the DWP, Rachel Maskell, formerly Labour and now serving as an Independent MP, questioned what measures are being implemented alongside the Chancellor of the Exchequer to collaboratively develop policy modifications to PIP's 'mobility allowances'. In his written reply, Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms stated: "The PIP mobility element is in scope of the Timms Review, which aims to ensure PIP is fair and fit for the future."

He continued: "We will co-produce the Review with disabled people, and their organisations to ensure lived experience is at the heart of its work. We will provide an update shortly." Sir Stephen added: "We will not make changes to PIP eligibility, including for the mobility element, until the Review has concluded."

During November's Autumn Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves unveiled proposals to reform the Motability Scheme. The planned reforms encompass abolishing VAT relief on top-up payments - one-off voluntary contributions needed to lease premium vehicles through the Scheme - and implementing Insurance Premium Tax on vehicle leases.

Tax alterations will not significantly affect vehicles that have been extensively modified for wheelchair users, or existing leases, and Motability will persist in supplying vehicles at no extra cost to the value of eligible disability benefits.

PIP in a nutshell

PIP can assist individuals over 16 and under State Pension age with the additional financial burdens associated with more than 500 health issues or disabling conditions. These conditions could be physical, sensory, mental, intellectual, cognitive, or a combination thereof.

The most recent data from the DWP reveals that over 3.9 million people across the UK were receiving PIP at the end of October. A successful PIP claim is now worth between £29.20 and £187.45 per week to aid with the extra costs of daily living and mobility needs.

However, a PIP award may allow claimants to access means-tested benefits even if they have previously been informed they are not eligible.

This is because entitlement to PIP can serve as a gateway or passport to other benefits, such as Carer's Allowance and schemes sponsored by other departments, like the Blue Badge. For many benefits and schemes, there are additional qualifying conditions, but for some, including the Blue Badge, there are alternative ways of accessing the benefit that do not depend on a specific rate or component of PIP.

Benefits which could be accessed with a PIP award

While you may not qualify for any or all of these benefits, it’s worthwhile checking to make sure you are not missing out on additional support.

• Access to Work
• Blue Badge or the Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme
• Carer’s Allowance / Carer Support Payment
• Carer’s Credit
• Christmas Bonus
• Council Tax Reduction
• Employment and Support Allowance - only if you get the PIP daily living component
• Housing Benefit
• Income Support‎
• Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Pension Credit - only if you get the PIP daily living component
• Universal Credit

Anyone who has already claimed PIP or has a general query about their award and what else they may be entitled to claim should call the Disability Service Centre. Full contact details including phone numbers can be found on the GOV.UK website..

From the start of this April, many benefits and payments from the Department for Work and Pension (DWP) will receive significant increases to their payment rates. Further changes are also planned for April as a result of the Universal Credit Act 2025.

For example, the standard allowance for Universal Credit will increase across the board, while many parents could also receive more due to a significant change to the child limit in Universal Credit. Currently, a two-child limit is in place for the benefit, which means the DWP will not pay any additional benefits for parents who have over two children.

However, the government has confirmed that this two-child limit will be scrapped from April of this year, allowing extra payments for third and subsequent children. Keep in mind, though, that despite this significant change, the overall benefit cap will still remain in place for Universal Credit.

Universal Credit rates for 2026/27

The government has confirmed that the Standard allowance for Universal Credit will increase by 2.3%. Furthermore, the following payments have been proposed by the government to increase from April 2026:

Single people

• Under 25: From £316.98 to £338.58
• 25 or over: From £400.14 to £424.90

Couples

• Joint claimants that are both under 25: From £497.55 to £528.34
• Joint claimants where one or both are 25 or over: From £628.10 to £666.97

Child Amounts

• First child (born prior to 6 April 2017): From £339.00 to £351.88
• First child (born on or after 6 April 2017) / subsequent children: From £292.81 to £303.94

Disabled Child Additions

• Lower rate addition: From £158.76 to £164.79
• Higher rate addition: From £495.87 to £514.71

Limited Capability for Work (LCW) / Work-Related Activity (LCWRA)

• Limited Capability for Work amount: Remaining at £158.76
• Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity amount (On, or after, April 6, 2026): From £423.27 to £217.26
• Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity amount (Pre-2026 claimant, severe conditions criteria, or terminally ill): From £423.27 to £429.80

Carer Amount

• Carer amount: From £201.68 to £209.34

Childcare Costs Amount

• Maximum for one child: From £1,031.88 to £1,071.09
• Maximum for two or more children: From £1,768.94 to £1,836.16

Housing & Work Allowances

• Non-dependants' housing cost contributions: From £93.02 to £96.55
• Higher work allowance (no housing amount): One or more dependent children or limited capability for work: From £684.00 to £710.00
• Lower work allowance: One or more dependent children or limited capability for work: From £411.00 to £427.00

Qualifying people may receive these payments during cold periods between November 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026

Countless Brits have endured frosty temperatures this past week, with the Met Office issuing snow and ice alerts across several parts of the country. Albeit inconvenient, the good news is that you could be in line to receive certain Government payments - provided you meet the criteria.

'Cold Weather Payments' are additional benefits provided to people receiving specific support during periods of very cold weather. These are generally issued by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) when the average temperature in your area is recorded or forecasted to be zero degrees Celsius or lower for seven consecutive days.

Typically, eligible people will receive £25 for each seven-day interval of very cold weather that occurs between November 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026. People in England and Wales may qualify for Cold Weather Payments if they receive other financial support, including:

• Pension Credit
• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Universal Credit
• Support for Mortgage Interest

Despite this, exactly whether you qualify will largely depend on your individual circumstances. For instance, if you are claiming Universal Credit, you and your partner must not be employed or 'gainfully self-employed' in order to receive the benefit.

Official advice on GOV.UK explains: "You may get Cold Weather Payments if you’re getting certain benefits or Support for Mortgage Interest. If you’re eligible, you’ll get these payments automatically. You do not need to apply, but you may need to tell Jobcentre Plus if you have a baby or if a child under five comes to live with you. The payments do not affect your other benefits."

If you're eager to see if your location in England or Wales qualifies for Cold Weather Payments, you can utilise the UK Government's postcode tool to find your address.

To check your eligibility and the criteria for Cold Weather Payments in Northern Ireland, head to the NI Direct website. If you live in Scotland, you are not eligible for Cold Weather Payments, but you might receive an annual Winter Heating Payment instead.

Cold Weather Payments activated already in England and Wales

As of January 7, Pulse Media reported that nearly 250 postcode areas had Cold Weather Payments activated by the DWP. In turn, it's believed that at least half a million households will be eligible for this additional financial support.

Affected areas have encompassed Greater Manchester, Cumbria, Gloucestershire, as well as parts of Wales and Northern Ireland. A list of postcodes included in this is below:

• CA1, CA2, CA3, CA4, CA5, CA6, CA7, CA8, DG16, BH1, BH2, BH3, BH4, BH5, BH6, BH7, BH8, BH9, BH10, BH11, BH12, BH13, BH14, BH15, BH16, BH17, BH18, BH19, BH20, BH21, BH22, BH23, BH24, BH25, BH31, DT1, DT2, DT11, SP6, CW1, CW2, CW3, CW5, CW12, SK10, SK11, ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4, ST5, ST6, ST7, ST12, ST14, ST15, ST16, ST17, ST18, ST19, ST20, ST21,CV36, GL54, GL55, GL56, OX7, OX15, OX16, OX17, WR12, LD1, LD2, LD4, LD5, LD6, LD7, LD8, SA19, SA20, SY7, SY9, SY18, BL0, BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4, BL5, BL6, BL7, BL8, BL9, M24, M26, OL1, OL2, OL3, OL4, OL5, OL6, OL7, OL8, OL9, OL10, OL11, OL12, OL15, OL16, SK15, CW4, CW6, CW7, CW8, CW9, CW10, CW11, M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6, M7, M8, M9, M11, M12, M13, M14, M15, M16, M17, M18, M19, M20, M21, M22, M23, M25, M27, M28, M29, M30, M31, M32, M33, M34, M35, M38, M40, M41, M43, M44, M45, M46, M50, M90, PR7, SK1, SK2, SK3, SK4, SK5, SK6, SK7, SK8, SK9, SK12, SK14, SK16, WA1, WA2, WA3, WA4, WA5, WA6, WA7, WA8, WA9, WA10, WA11, WA12, WA13, WA14, WA15, WA16, WN1, WN2, WN3, WN4, WN5, WN6, WN7, WN8, SY1, SY2, SY3, SY4, SY5, SY6, SY11, SY12, SY13, TF1, TF2, TF3, TF4, TF5, TF6, TF7, TF8, TF9, TF10, TF11, TF12, TF13, LE15, NN14, NN15, NN16, NN17, NN18, PE1, PE2, PE3, PE4, PE5, PE6, PE7, PE8, PE9, PE15, PE16, PE26, PE27, PE28, PE29, BT24, BT25, BT26, BT30, BT31, BT32, BT33, BT34.

For more information, visit the UK Government website here.

On Monday, January 5, HSBC announced it was reducing prices on residential and buy-to-let fixed-rate mortgages. Following suit was Barclays and Halifax who on Friday have made reductions to a range of their fixed mortgage rates. Barclays now offers a mortgage rate as low as 3.56% for its Premier customers who are moving home and have a deposit of at least 40%.

For people re-mortgaging with 25 per cent equity in their home, from today Barclays will be offering a two-year fix at 3.78 per cent, with a £999 product fee.  

This is the same as HSBC's 3.78 per cent deal, however HSBC has a fee of £1,008. Halifax has also said it will be lowering rates by up to 0.16 percentage points for home buyers from Friday.

Shaun Sturgess, director at Swansea-based Sturgess Mortgage Solutions, told the Newspage agency the cuts are a positive sign.

"These aren’t headline-grabbing cuts but lenders don’t move first unless they’re confident funding costs are easing and the wider outlook is improving," he said.

"My view is that this is the start, not the finish. I expect steady, gradual reductions through 2026 rather than sharp drops. For first-time buyers in south Wales, this opens real opportunity."

Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability, will lead the review in partnership with disabled people's organisations and charities. Those awarded the enhanced rate of PIP's mobility component are eligible to use some or all of their payment towards leasing a new vehicle, wheelchair-accessible car, scooter or powered wheelchair via the Motability Scheme.

Latest statistics from Motability Operations - the organisation managing the transformative Motability Scheme - reveal there are currently 815,000 customers throughout the UK. Current DWP data indicates that approximately 37 per cent of the total 3.9 million claimants were receiving the enhanced rate of both the daily living and mobility components at the end of July, reports the Daily Record.

Five most-claimed PIP conditions

Listed below are the five most frequently claimed PIP conditions, showing the proportion of claimants awarded the enhanced rates of both daily living and mobility components.

Psychiatric disorder

• Daily living and mobility component - 42%
• Daily living component only - 69%
• Mobility component only - 46%

Musculoskeletal disease (general)

• Daily living and mobility component - 26%
• Daily living component only - 34%
• Mobility component only - 45%

Neurological disease

• Daily living and mobility component - 51%
• Daily living component only - 58%
• Mobility component only - 72%

Musculoskeletal disease (regional)

• Daily living and mobility component - 20%
• Daily living component only - 27%
• Mobility component only - 45%

Respiratory disease

• Daily living and mobility component - 31%
• Daily living component only - 37%
• Mobility component only - 57%

Respiratory disease During the most recent oral questions session in Parliament, the DWP faced calls to "consider the benefits to which PIP is a gateway, such as Motability, disability premiums, Council Tax discounts and Blue Badges". Sir Stephen Timms was also pressed to "promise at least that those entitlements could come down".

He responded: "We have made it clear that we will co-produce our review of the PIP assessment with disabled people and representatives of disability organisations. The review will cover the assessment for the mobility component, which leads on to the Motability scheme, and other entitlements to which PIP is a gateway."

There are presently more than 3.2 million Blue Badge permit holders throughout the UK, including in excess of 235,700 in Scotland.

Other benefits which can be accessed with a PIP award

Whilst you may not be eligible for some or all of these benefits, it's worth checking to ensure you're not missing out on extra support.

• Access to Work
• Blue Badge
• Carer’s Allowance / Carer Support Payment
• Carer’s Credit
• Christmas Bonus
• Council Tax Reduction
• Employment and Support Allowance - only if you get the PIP daily living component
• Housing Benefit
• Income Support‎
• Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Pension Credit - only if you get the PIP daily living component
• Universal Credit

The complete PIP Handbook is available on GOV.UK here.

The finance expert and founder of Money Saving Expert addressed the question of when interest becomes liable for tax during a listener's call to his BBC podcast. People nearing retirement or those who have recently retired might benefit from checking over their savings accounts, as there's a possibility of overpaying tax here.

Under current HMRC rules, you get a starter rate for savings that permits you to earn £5,000 annually in interest, though this decreases by £1 for every £1 earned above the personal allowance threshold of £12,570 per year.

So once your annual earnings reach £17,570, the starter rate disappears entirely. Nevertheless, basic rate income tax payers can also earn up to £1,000 yearly in interest without incurring tax liability on that sum.

Any taxable interest earnings will face taxation aligned with your income tax bracket - 20 per cent for basic rate taxpayers and 40 per cent for higher rate individuals. Higher rate taxpayers receive only a £500 allowance, while those in the additional rate category receive no savings allowance whatsoever, and pay 45 percent tax.

You can also deposit up to £20,000 a year into ISAs, where any interest earnings or investment growth are tax-free.

The key rule for when your interest earnings become taxable

Mr Lewis highlighted the crucial principle to remember: "What triggers the interest counting for tax purposes, is the first moment that the interest is accessible to you." He explained that for instant access accounts, where you can make withdrawals at any time, the interest becomes taxable and contributes to your annual allowance "at the moment it is paid".

However, the situation becomes more complicated regarding fixed rate accounts. Mr Lewis explained: "Let's imagine a fixed savings account where you've got a two-year fix and the money is locked in for that period, but the interest is paid annually.

• Money Saving Expert founder, Martin Lewis, issued a severe public warning on social media about a sophisticated, new telephone scam. He explicitly told the public to "not trust" specific people who may call them claiming to represent his endorsements.
• The scam firm is dishonestly alleging that Martin Lewis has encouraged people to engage with their specific offer for grants related to renewable energy projects. Lewis reacted strongly to this, stating the claim is "UTTER B**S" and advising consumers to politely hang up the phone immediately.
• This call is just part of a wider issue where scammers use Martin Lewis' recognisable face or name in various advertisements, such as for cryptocurrency, investments, or bank schemes. The money expert maintains a long-standing policy: neither he nor Money Saving Expert has ever endorsed any financial products or services.
• If you have already responded to one of these scams, you should stop all further communication with the fraudsters immediately. The next step is to call your bank directly to cancel or block any outstanding or recurring payments you may have authorised.
• Victims can use the 159 hotline to connect quickly and safely with the fraud department of almost all major UK banks. Scams must also be reported to the relevant UK authorities: in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, you should contact Action Fraud, and in Scotland, you should report it via Advice Direct Scotland or to Police Scotland on 101.