News

Thousands receive incorrect Cost of Living Payment text from DWP

Published

10 months 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.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

3 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

17 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

17 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.