By Bill Heaney

The SNP Government has announced it will bring back a universal winter heating payment to help pensioners heat their homes next winter.

It comes after cuts by Labour Chancellor Rachel Reeves to the Winter Fuel Payment across the UK forced the SNP to compensate by promising to introduce a modified version of the policy north of the border.

All pensioners were due to receive up to £300 this winter, but the payment was cut to only those who claim pension credit.

The move sparked a public outcry and a political storm in both parliaments and drew criticism from opposition parties, charities and Scottish ministers.

Labour was said not only to have shot itself in the foot but between the eyes for introducing such a cack handed, controversial policy so early into its return to government.

However, on Thursday, Shirley-Anne Somerville has announced at Holyrood that every pensioner in Scotland will receive a modified version of the now scrapped winter heating payment in 2025/26.

She said those in receipt of qualifying benefits like pension credit would receive the same payment of £200 or £300 – depending on age – while all others will receive £100.

This provides them with support not available anywhere else in the UK.

“The measures I have announced today will go some way to allay the fears of pensioners in Scotland ahead of next winter, but the Scottish Government recognises that more must be done,” the social justice secretary said.

“This Scottish Government is determined to stay true to our values.

“We will not abandon older people this winter or indeed any winter and we will continue to protect our pensioners from the harsh reality of a UK Labour Government.”

Somerville also announced an additional £20 million for the Scottish Welfare Fund, to enable councils to provide more support to people in crisis this winter, as well as an additional £20 million for the Warmer Homes Scotland Scheme, which helps people install energy efficiency measures and more efficient heating systems.

She said the latter saves households, on average, around £300 per year energy bills.