MILLIONS are eligible for free cash from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) this winter.

Hard-up households are in line for help through a number of Government schemes and funds.

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In some cases you have to apply while in others those who qualify receive payments automatically.

Whether you are eligible for all of them depends on your exact circumstances too.

From the cold weather payment, to Household Support Fund and Warm Home Discount scheme, here’s all the help on offer.

Cold weather payment

Cold weather payments are made to households in areas that experience continual cold temperatures over the winter months.

The payments are usually made between November 1 and March 31 to those on certain benefits.

You get £25 for each seven day period where the temperature is zero degrees celsius or below in your area, with payments usually processed in 14 working days.

That means if you live somewhere where temperatures were sub-zero for two weeks, you would get £50.

You usually qualify for a cold weather payment if you are on one of the following benefits:

Most eligible people don’t need to apply to get cold weather payments.

However, if you are on Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) or income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and have had a baby or have a child under five living with you, you need to tell your local Jobcentre Plus centre.

If you don’t, you won’t receive any of the payments despite being eligible.

You can check if you’re eligible for a cold weather payment via gov.uk.

Warm Home Discount Scheme

The Warm Home Discount Scheme sees households on certain benefits receive a one-off discount on their energy bills worth £150.

The discount is automatic for the vast majority of qualifying households and is applied between October and the following March.

You are automatically eligible if you receive the Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit.

You also qualify if you are on a number of other benefits and live in a home with a high energy cost score.

This is calculated by the Government based on the type, age and size of your property.

You may not qualify for the Warm Home Discount if you live in a more energy-efficient home for example.

The £150 discount is applied to your bill by your energy supplier.

The full list of suppliers who are part of the scheme can be found via https://www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme/energy-suppliers.

Households in Scotland don’t need to apply for the Warm Home Discount if they get the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit.

However, you do need to apply via your energy firm if you receive any of the other qualifying benefits.

Household Support Fund

The Household Support Fund has been extended multiple times, first launching in October 2021.

The latest round is worth £421million and has been shared by the DWP between councils in England.

These councils then have to decide who to give money to, and how to distribute it.

That means what you are entitled to depends on where you live and it can be a bit of a postcode lottery.

However, you might be eligible for direct bank transfers, supermarket or energy vouchers.

You may even qualify for discounted white goods.

Households in Birmingham can get £200 cash grants paid into their bank accounts by the city council.

Meanwhile, Nottinghamshire Council is paying tens of thousands of households £200 one-off payments.

You can check if you’re eligible for help by contacting your local council which you can find via www.gov.uk/find-local-council.

Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.

Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories

The tragic death of Liam Payne at just 31 years old has sent shockwaves through the music industry and his legion of fans. The former One Direction star was found dead in a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on October 16, 2024, leaving the world grappling with the loss of a beloved artist. However, the circumstances surrounding his untimely demise have raised even more alarming questions. Reports indicate that a partial autopsy revealed the presence of a dangerous substance known as “pink cocaine” in his system. But what exactly is this drug, and what does it mean for those who encounter it?

The Dark Reality of Pink Cocaine

Despite its misleading name, pink cocaine doesn’t actually contain any cocaine. Instead, it’s a potent powdered mix of various drugs, often including ecstasy, ketamine, caffeine, and a psychedelic called 2-CB, as reported by the National Capital Poison Center. Commonly referred to as “Tusi,” this substance is often dyed bright pink, sometimes with a fruity, strawberry flavor added for appeal.

Primarily found in party and club environments, pink cocaine can lead to a range of unsettling effects. Users have reported experiencing hallucinations, anxiety, nausea, increased body temperature, and elevated heart rates. Even more concerning, the National Capital Poison Center warns that pink cocaine can precipitate physical and sexual assaults, as well as severe injuries when individuals are under its influence.

A Dangerous Cocktail of Drugs

What’s particularly alarming about pink cocaine is that it can often be mixed with other substances, resulting in unpredictable and potentially life-threatening effects. Reports indicate that samples of pink cocaine have been found to contain opioids, bath salts, and hallucinogens, intensifying the dangers associated with its use. Although the National Capital Poison Center states that pink cocaine is less addictive than substances like opioids or fentanyl, the risk of developing an addiction still looms.

Moreover, the lack of regulation surrounding the production and distribution of pink cocaine means users have no way of knowing the exact composition of the drug they’re taking. This uncertainty can lead to overdose or severe health complications, as users may not be aware of the dangerous ingredients mixed in with the primary substances.

Related: Liam Payne 911 Call Transcript Released After Hotel Staff Plea

Liam Payne’s Tragic Final Hours

In the wake of Liam’s death, shocking details from his partial autopsy have emerged. On October 21, 2024, it was revealed that he had pink cocaine in his system alongside other substances, including cocaine, benzodiazepines, and crack. Eyewitness accounts have painted a grim picture of the hours leading up to his tragic fall from a third-floor balcony at the hotel.

A hotel staff member made a frantic 911 call just before the incident, expressing concern over an unnamed guest who had “overindulged on drugs and alcohol.” The audio, obtained by Telemundo, highlights the urgency of the situation. “When he is conscious, he breaks, he is breaking the whole room,” the staff member stated, pleading for police assistance due to fears for the guest’s safety. “The guest is in a room that has a balcony, and, well, we are a little afraid that he might do something life-threatening.”

Witnesses reported hearing loud noises and screams from his hotel room hours before the fall, suggesting that Liam was in distress. As investigations continue, friends and family have called for greater awareness of the risks associated with party drugs and the culture of excess that often accompanies fame.

The Aftermath of Liam’s Death

Liam Payne’s shocking passing has reignited discussions around the dangers of recreational drugs and their devastating impact. The rise of substances like pink cocaine poses a significant threat, especially to young people who might underestimate its dangers. As friends, fans, and fellow musicians mourn the loss of a talented star, the conversation about drug use, mental health, and the pressures of fame takes center stage.

The Celebrity Influence on Drug Culture

Liam Payne’s death highlights the broader issue of substance abuse in the entertainment industry, where excessive partying and drug use can become normalized. Many celebrities, including musicians and actors, have openly discussed their struggles with addiction and the pressures they face in the limelight. The allure of fame often comes with hidden dangers, leading to tragic outcomes that can affect not only the individual but also their fans and loved ones.

As the conversation surrounding mental health and substance abuse continues to evolve, it’s vital to recognize the importance of seeking help. Support systems, both professional and personal, play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate these challenges.

Related: Former One Direction star Liam Payne found dead in suspected suicide

Stay Informed and Stay Safe

As more information surfaces about Liam Payne’s tragic end and the role of pink cocaine in his death, it’s crucial for individuals to educate themselves about the dangers of recreational drug use. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, help is available. Reach out to local support groups or healthcare professionals for assistance.

Raising awareness about drugs like pink cocaine can empower individuals to make informed decisions and prioritize their health and well-being. Engaging in open conversations about substance use and its effects is essential in breaking the stigma surrounding addiction.

For further details on this tragic story and updates on drug awareness, visit National Capital Poison Center for resources and information.

In the summer, I seriously considered replacing my iPhone 14 with an old Nokia 3310 – a phone you can use to text, make calls and play Snake.

But then I remembered how heavily I rely on Google Maps. And how I need email and Microsoft Teams on my phone for work. Also, it’s so much more convenient to keep train and plane tickets on my phone, and use Apple Pay to buy things. And to have a camera to hand at all times. The list goes on and, needless to say, I kept my iPhone.

The (slightly worrying) reality is that technology has become integral to everyday life for most people in the Western world.

And yes, it’s great… when it works.

But last night, I was trying to get an article finished for today and my computer would not play ball.

First, Microsoft Word froze up and wouldn’t let me write anything, then the CMS went down so I couldn’t load anything onto the website.

I regained access to both but my emails wouldn’t open and then the whole laptop shut down without warning (it’s a good thing I’m an obsessive saver).

In the end, it took me about an hour longer than it should have to complete my article.

Obviously, without technology, I wouldn’t have been able to complete the task at all. But that didn’t make it any less irksome when the technology slowed me down.

It’s a frustration shared by advisers.

Currently, only one-fifth are satisfied with their tech stack and not looking to make a change, NextWealth’s latest Financial Advice Business Benchmarks report, published today (22 October), suggests. This is the lowest level since 2020.

A major frustration for advisers is the inefficiency of existing technology in streamlining business processes.

NextWealth managing director Heather Hopkins says innovation in tech can be a “critical driver” of business efficiency. Yet only 21% of respondents are fully confident in technology innovations to make their lives easier.

In the report, respondents express the need for faster systems and better integration capabilities to enhance overall efficiency.

The report suggests that growth firms are those most likely to be looking to make a change. Around 39% of respondents from growth firms are looking to change their tech stack, almost 17% higher than the rest of the market.

NextWealth suggests that, as growth firms are focussed on hiring staff and seeking new clients, it is possible to deduce that these firms are “particularly discerning” of solutions that enable them to streamline activity in meeting growth objectives.

But there is still a long way to go when it comes to using technology to deliver efficient advice.

“In spite of new ways of working and huge advances in tech, there has been no improvement in the time it takes to deliver advice to a new client,” says NextWealth managing director Heather Hopkins.

“It still takes an average of 33 days to deliver the first piece of advice to a new client. This is something I really hope we see change in the near future.”

Many advisers believe that current tech solutions are not effectively addressing these operational challenges​. And almost a third say they will add or cease working with a tech partner in the next year.

This change, says NextWealth, is driven by a desire to improve business efficiency and to adopt artificial intelligence.

AI has been in development for some time now and is undoubtedly on the radar of financial advice firms, the report says. But attitudes remain split, and the benefits and limitations of AI can lack clarity.

For example, the Financial Conduct Authority has made it clear that it wants firms to embrace AI, but it hasn’t yet set out how it can use it.

Speaking at The Verve Group’s Evolution 2024 conference last month, Iress head of relationship management – wealth UK Gareth Williams said firms in the financial services sector now face a “Catch-22 situation” when it comes to adopting artificial intelligence due to the messages from the regulator.

At the end of August, research from the CFA Institute showed that the vast majority (85%) of investment professionals believe there needs to be industry-wide standards and ethical guidelines for AI use. 82% said the lack of such standards hinders faster adoption.

Overall, 47% said their business is not well prepared for potential regulatory changes regarding AI.

But they need to get prepared, because this is something the regulator is pushing for.

Last week, it launched the AI Lab – a new initiative, to help firms “overcome challenges” in building and implementing AI solutions and support the government’s work on safe and responsible AI development.

NextWealth’s FABB report suggests the appetite to engage with AI is strong among financial advice professionals, with over a quarter using or implementing an AI solution.

The increase in appetite among respondents is significant, with 28% saying they are currently using AI, up from 5% year-on-year.

In verbatim feedback, almost a fifth of financial advice professionals (18%) explicitly said they had changed their tech stack to incorporate AI-based solutions.

Meanwhile, almost two-thirds of financial advice professionals are not using AI but do consider it an area to watch (up from 44% in 2023).

The view that AI is not fit for purpose has decreased from 29% in 2023 to just 7% this year, reinforcing the overall picture of an increased perception of relevance.

As demonstrated by my nightmare with my laptop yesterday, there is only so far technology will take you. And there is only so  much advisers can do to make their own businesses efficient before having to rely on others.

One-third of respondents to NextWealth’s survey said that gathering data from providers is the lengthiest step in the process of delivering advice.

There has been no meaningful change in this metric since 2021. Additionally, 8% more respondents say that getting data from the client is the lengthiest step.

“While tech can make advice businesses more efficient, these firms rely on providers to share data,” says Hopkins. “Tech isn’t the only solution.”

MILLIONS of water customers could see their bills rise by up to 84% as major firms call for bumper hikes.

According to figures released by the watchdog Ofwat on Tuesday, water companies have requested even higher consumer bill increases than initially proposed.

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The Sun was first to reveal the news on Friday.

The latest requests by water firms would see the average customer bill in England and Wales rise by 40% between now and 2030 to £615 per year.

Earlier this year, companies asked Ofwat for bills averaging £585 by 2030, an increase of about one-third from the current average of £439.

This summer, the regulator pared back those requests to an average of £535, in its draft price review in July.

But now, after a consultation period, 10 of the 11 water companies have hit back with even higher requests than before.

The biggest proposed rise is by Southern Water, which would see bills for its customers in Sussex, Kent and Hampshire rise by 84% between now and 2030.

Thames Water, the UK’s biggest provider, which is in emergency talks over a £15 billion debt pile and a worsening financial situation, has asked for a 53% rise.

The next biggest hikes are by Severn Trent Water, of 46% to £580, and north Wales provider Hafren Dyfrdwy, of 45% to £568.

Only one company, Wessex Water, is not demanding higher bills than first requested.

Many argue that they need to spend more on upgrading their pipes, sewers, and reservoirs than originally planned, and therefore, they need bills to go up, too.

Ofwat wrote in an update on Tuesday that this was “mostly to meet the requirements of other regulators like the Environment Agency and Drinking Water Inspectorate”.

However, some of the increases are designed to meet “changes to the proposed rate of return for investors”.

Ofwat is due to make a final decision on bills increases on December 19, with companies going to the negotiating table with regulators before then.

The regulator said: “We will consider this additional expenditure request as part of our final determinations.”

The latest string of demands comes amid public and political outcry over sewage spills in the privatised water industry, while companies’ investors receive dividends and top executives get bonuses.

A recent performance report by Ofwat showed there has only been a 2% reduction in pollution since 2019 despite firms committing to cutting it by 30%.

Labour has suggested sweeping new laws that could see bosses face up to two years in jail if they obstruct regulators – but nothing has come into force.

At the begining of October, water companies were ordered to return £157.6million to customers after failing to meet pollution targets.

Each year, Ofwat evaluates the performance of England and Wales’s 17 largest water and wastewater companies against key targets, including sewer flooding, supply interruptions, and water leaks.

For the second consecutive year, no company attained the highest rating, although four companies demonstrated improvement compared to the previous year.

As a result, millions of customers at 13 water companies will see their bills slashed next year as the watchdog issues fresh penalties.

The penalties for each water firm are as follows:

• Thames Water £56.8million
• Anglian Water: £38.1million
• Yorkshire Water: £36million
• Southern Water: £31.9million
• Welsh Water: £24.1million
• South West Water: £17.4million
• South East Water: £8million
• Wessex Water: £5.3million
• Affinity Water: £5.2million
• Bristol Water: £1.9million
• Portsmouth Water: £1.1million
• South Staffs Water: £700,000
• Hafren Dyfrdwy: £200,000

The regulator said that the exact amount that will be returned to customers will be finalised in December and applied to bills from April 2025.

Only four water companies have not faced a penalty from the regulator, meaning customers at the following firms won’t receive a rebate next year.

Instead, the amount they will be allowed to add to bills are as follows:

• United Utilities: £33.2million
• Severn Trent Water: £27.9million
• Northumbrian Water: £7.8million
• SES Water: £200,000

Water companies were set stretching targets for 2020-25 to deliver better outcomes, for both customers and the environment.

Where they fall short on these, the regulator imposes performance penalties resulting in customers being charged less than they would be the following billing year.

Performance penalties have totalled more than £430million since 2020.  

Last year, Ofwat forced through bill reductions worth £177.6million.

What water bill support is available?

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IT’S always worth checking if you qualify for a discount or extra support to help pay your water bill.

Over two million households who qualify to be on discounted social water tariffs aren’t claiming the savings provided, according to the Consumer Council for Water (CCW).

Only 1.3million households are currently issued with a social water tariff – up 19% from the previous year.

And the average household qualifying for the discounted water rates can slash their bills by £160 a year.

Every water company has a social tariff scheme which can help reduce your bills if you’re on a low income and the CCW is calling on customers to take advantage before bills rise in April.

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Who’s eligible for help and the level of support offered varies depending on your water company.

Most suppliers also have a pot of money to dish out to thousands of customers who are under pressure from rising costs – and you don’t have to pay it back.

These grants can be worth hundreds of pounds offering a vital lifeline when faced with daunting water bills.

The exact amount you can get depends on where you live and your supplier, as well as your individual circumstances.

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Many billpayers across the country could also get help paying off water debts through a little-known scheme and even get the balance written off.

Companies match the payments eligible customers make against the debt on their account to help clear it sooner.

If you’re on a water meter but find it hard to save water as you have a large family or water-dependent medical condition, you may be able to cap your bills through the WaterSure scheme.

Bills are capped at the average amount for your supplier, so the amount you could save will vary.

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The Consumer Council for Water estimates that bills are reduced by £307 on average through the scheme.

The intersection of art and technology is creating exciting opportunities for financial growth among artists. Leveraging digital tools, modern platforms, and innovative techniques, you can elevate your creative practice while expanding your revenue streams.

Whether you’re an established artist or just starting out, embracing technological advancements can transform how you create, market, and sell your work.

Virtual reality galleries, crowdfunding campaigns, social media marketing, digital production tools, and online marketplaces are just a few ways that tech-savvy artists are finding new paths to success.

Let’s explore how these innovations can help you boost your career financially.

5 Ways Artists Leverage Technology for Financial Growth

1. Online Marketplaces

Online marketplaces have transformed the way artists sell their work. Sites like Etsy, Society6, and Redbubble offer platforms where you can showcase your art to a global audience.

These websites handle much of the logistical hassle – like payment processing and shipping – allowing you to focus on creating. By setting up an online shop, you not only gain exposure but also have the flexibility to manage your inventory and pricing strategies.

Engaging with customers through reviews and personalized messages builds community and fosters repeat buyers.

Additionally, these platforms often provide valuable analytics that help you understand market trends and improve your sales techniques over time.

2. Digital Music Production

Digital music production has revolutionized how musicians create and distribute their work. With affordable and user-friendly software, even independent artists can produce high-quality tracks from the comfort of their homes. Tools such as digital audio workstations (DAWs) have made recording, editing, and mixing more accessible than ever.

Additionally, advanced features like autotune and effects libraries help refine your sound to professional standards. Digital music mastering is simple with apps like Mixea, allowing you to perfect your tracks without needing an expensive studio setup.

This technological advancement empowers musicians to take full control of their creative process while also opening up new avenues for revenue generation.

3. Virtual Reality Galleries

Virtual reality (VR) galleries are changing the landscape for art exhibitions. With VR technology, you can create immersive, 3D gallery experiences that allow potential buyers to explore your artwork from the comfort of their homes.

This not only saves on physical space and travel costs but also broadens your reach to a global audience. When you offer high-definition views and interactive features, VR galleries provide an engaging experience that traditional online photos cannot match.

Artists can host virtual openings, complete with live chats and guided tours, making it easier to connect with collectors in real-time. This innovative approach is proving to be a game-changer in how art is marketed and sold.

4. Crowdfunding Campaigns

Crowdfunding campaigns have become a powerful tool for artists looking to fund their projects. Platforms like Kickstarter and Netcapital allow you to pitch your ideas directly to backers.

This approach not only democratizes the funding process but also helps build a dedicated community around your work. If you offer exclusive rewards such as limited edition prints, behind-the-scenes content, or personalized experiences, you can incentivize support and engage with your audience on a deeper level.

Successful campaigns provide essential financial backing while maintaining creative control. Additionally, crowdfunding introduces your art to new audiences who may become lifelong fans.

5. Social Media Marketing

Social media marketing has become indispensable for artists seeking to reach wider audiences. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook offer unprecedented opportunities for showcasing your work, engaging with fans, and driving sales.

By sharing regular updates on your creative process, upcoming projects, or finished pieces, you can build a dedicated following. Engaging content such as stories, live sessions, and behind-the-scenes glimpses creates a personal connection with your audience.

Utilizing hashtags and collaborations with other artists or influencers can further expand your visibility. Effective social media strategies not only enhance brand recognition but also direct potential buyers to your online stores or galleries.

Technology Can Be An Artist’s Best Friend

Embracing technology can unlock new doors for your artistic journey, offering endless possibilities for growth and financial success. Don’t hesitate to explore these innovative tools and platforms, integrating them into your creative process.

Start experimenting with online marketplaces, virtual galleries, crowdfunding, social media marketing, and digital production today. Each step you take opens up more opportunities to connect with audiences worldwide and monetize your talents in fresh ways.