More than 7,300 households across Uttlesford and North Chelmsford are eligible to receive the Government's latest cost of living payments.

Saffron Walden MP Kemi Badenoch has welcomed the news that qualifying households will be given £301 as the latest payments begin to be sent out.

Around 7,100 eligible individuals across the constituency will also receive the Government's disability cost of living payment again this year - worth £150.

Over eight million households across the UK who claimed qualifying means-tested benefits during the eligibility period will be automatically paid £301 in their first payment this year.

This direct support is part of the Government’s £94 billion package of cost of living support  - worth £900 this year - for vulnerable households receiving means-tested benefits.

The payments are made directly with no need to apply or do anything to receive it.

In addition to means-tested cost of living support, the Energy Price Guarantee aims to help keep household energy bills as low as possible – ensuring the typical family pays no more that £2,500 for their energy bills until the end of June this year.

READ MORE

Mrs Badenoch commented: "Households are facing rising living costs and this Government is rightly protecting the most vulnerable people across our constituency.

"7,300 families across North Chelmsford and Uttlesford are eligible for this additional payment, giving them the support and protection from rising prices.

"You can find all the support available at helpforhouseholds.campaign.gov.uk but if residents have any concerns, do email me and I will put you in touch with the organisations that can assist."

The £301 payments to eligible households were sent out by the end of May for most people on DWP benefits or on tax credits and no other low income benefits.

If you think you should have had the £301 payment, but you cannot see it in your bank, building society or credit union account, you can report it via the Government website.

The £150 disability cost of living payments will be paid automatically between June 20 and July 4.

For more information on what payments you could be eligible for visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/cost-of-living-payment.