HUNDREDS of families across West Dunbartonshire are set to receive a cash boost this winter (2023/24) to help heat their homes.

An additional payment of £235.70 will be paid into the bank accounts of families with young people and children with disabilities.

This is according to the latest statistics for the Child Winter Heating Assistance (CWHA) benefit.

The payment is made automatically once a year and has been increased by 10.1 percent this year from £214.10 previously.

In the last year (2022/23) 600 payments worth around £130,000 were made in West Dunbartonshire – over £45,000 more than the previous winter.

Since November 2020 – when the benefit launched – around £299,000 in CWHA payments have been issued in the local authority.

Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “The cost of living crisis and higher energy bills mean that families are struggling more than ever.

“Getting this money to families who may need to heat their homes for longer than others over the winter months provides crucial financial support and eases financial pressure at a challenging time of year.

"Therefore, it is welcome news that £130,000 has been paid to eligible families in West Dunbartonshire for winter 2022/23.

“This Scottish Government benefit is one of seven benefits only available in Scotland and is automatically paid to families of the most severely disabled children and young people.

“I urge anyone who is struggling during the cost of living crisis to visit the Scottish Government’s Cost of Living website for support and advice.”