News

Thousands receive incorrect Cost of Living Payment text from DWP

Published

2 years ago

January 30, 2024

NUMEROUS residents of Pembrokeshire have said they were perplexed by a text message from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) on Tuesday (Jan 30). The message incorrectly stated that the February Cost of Living Payment would be delayed until October.

The message, distributed around noon to thousands of benefit recipients, read: “The £300 Cost of Living Payment will be paid automatically from 31 October to 19 November. For more information search online for DWP Cost of Living Payment.”

This newspaper received numerous inquiries from concerned locals, predominantly benefits recipients, alarmed by the prospect of not receiving their anticipated funds in a timely manner.

Upon investigation, and after direct communication with the DWP, it has been determined that the message was erroneously sent and is a replication of a notification from the previous year.

The DWP intended to inform eligible individuals that the forthcoming payment, now valued at £299, is scheduled for disbursement between February 6 and 22.

A spokesperson for the DWP commented on the matter: “We’re aware that earlier today, a number of individuals eligible for the upcoming Cost of Living payment received a text with incorrect information. The issue has been resolved, and we confirm that the forthcoming payment, amounting to £299, will be disbursed between February 6 and 22.”

The text message led to widespread confusion, with many voicing their frustrations on social media platforms. Alex Griffiths, one of the recipients, expressed dismay: “Typical, can’t they get even this simple thing right?”

Key dates for 2023 Cost of Living Payments

Most people entitled to the payment will get:

£301 paid between 25 April 2023 and 17 May 2023 if you’re on DWP benefits
£301 paid between 2 and 9 May 2023 if you get tax credits only
£300 paid between 31 October and 19 November if you get DWP benefits
£300 paid between 10 and 19 November if you only get tax credits
£299 paid between 6 and 22 February 2024 if you’re on DWP benefits
£299 paid between 16 and 22 February 2024 if you get tax credits only.

Community

Community gathers to remember Corrina Baker

Published

4 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Lanterns and balloons released in emotional acts of remembrance

FAMILY, friends and members of the local community came together to remember Corrina Baker at a series of moving events held across west Wales this week.

Corrina’s funeral took place on Monday (Dec 15), a month after her death, with a public service held at St Mary’s Church. Mourners lined the route as her coffin was carried on its final journey in an elegant horse-drawn carriage, before a private cremation later took place at Parc Gwyn crematorium in Narberth.

Later that evening, shortly after 6:00pm, friends and relatives gathered at the Quayside in Cardigan for the first of two acts of remembrance to celebrate her life. Lanterns were lit and released into the night sky above the town as some of Corrina’s favourite songs were played.

On Tuesday afternoon (Dec 16), a second tribute was held near the location where Corrina was found. Twenty-one pink balloons — one for each year of her life — were released into a clear blue sky, each carrying personal messages in her memory.

Floral tributes continue to be laid at the Netpool, while a GoFundMe appeal set up in Corrina’s memory has raised more than £2,300. She has been described by those who knew her as “funny and bright”.

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed that their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms Baker’s death is ongoing. A 29-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail while inquiries continue.

(Photos: Stuart Ladd/Herald)

Community

Six untaxed vehicles seized in Milford Haven police operation

Published

5 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SIX untaxed and abandoned vehicles were seized during a joint roads policing operation in Milford Haven on Tuesday morning.

Officers from the Milford Haven Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Team (NPPT) worked alongside the Pembrokeshire Roads Policing Team as part of targeted enforcement across the town.

In addition to the vehicle seizures, a number of traffic offence reports were issued to drivers during the operation.

Police said the action formed part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and tackle vehicle-related offences in the Milford Haven area.

Community

Candlelit carol service brings community together in Milford Haven

Published

5 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

ST KATHARINE and St Peter’s Church in Milford Haven hosted its annual Candlelit Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, bringing together members of the community for a traditional celebration of Christmas.

The service featured readings from the Mayor of Milford Haven, representatives of the Soroptimists, Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society, the Headteacher and Head Prefects of Milford Haven School, Milford Haven Town Band, and NCI Wooltack Point.

Music for the evening was provided by organist Seimon Morris, Milford Haven Town Band and the Milford Haven Cluster Band, whose performances added to the atmosphere of the candlelit service.

The Friends of St Katharine and St Peter’s Church thanked all those involved and wished the community a happy Christmas.