More than 10,000 to receive £150 disability cost-of-living payment in Belfast South

More than 10,000 people on disability benefits in Belfast South are set to receive £150 from this week, as part of a government package to help with the cost-living-crisis, figures show.

People with disabilities are facing some of the worst impacts of the cost-of-living crisis, having more care and mobility needs than the general population.

The Department of Work and Pensions estimates 13,500 individuals in Belfast South can expect the payment from this week, with the Government saying that the vast majority of those eligible will have received it by the start of October.

Those who already receive a qualifying disability benefit will be paid automatically, the Government has said.

The new Chancellor, Kwasi Kwarteng, described the scheme as "providing vital support to shield the most vulnerable".

The payment comes in addition to a plan announced by Prime Minister Liz Truss on September 8 to freeze energy bills at £2,500 for the next two years.