Extra cold weather payments have been triggered in Malvern after a winter snap hit the town last week. The Department for Work and Pensions has written to West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin confirming that the emergency payments will be made to selected benefit claimants living in the Malvern area after temperatures sank below 0 degrees for seven consecutive days. The payment, which was raised to £25 in 2010, is made automatically to those who qualify for the extra amount which is intended to help with extra heating costs during very cold weather. Harriett commented: “The additional cold weather payment is an important measure which helps the more vulnerable people in society when the temperature drops below zero. “Keeping warm is important at this time of year and I know people are reassured that those people who get this extra help will be able to keep the heating on for longer and staying comfortable. “This extra money comes on top of those people who qualify for the Winter Fuel Payments scheme and is a little extra help during periods of cold weather. “As winter does take hold, I would encourage local people to make an extra effort to look out for the elderly and infirm, especially those who live in rural parts of the county. “An offer to do some shopping or popping in to make a cup of tea can be a huge bonus for those people who struggle to get out and about during the winter months.”