Money Matters: Help with your energy bills as we head into winter

In this week’s Money Matters column, Wrekin’s debt and energy manager Dan Bebbington looks into what support is available for those struggling with their energy bills.

As the weather starts to get colder, many people will be worrying about paying their energy bills over winter.

This year there is added concern for many pensioners who will not be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment, after the government changed the eligibility rules so that only those who claim Pension Credit receive the support.

But if you’re worried about paying your energy bills, there are a number of support schemes in place for you to explore.

Firstly, it’s important to speak to your energy supplier as soon as possible if you’re falling behind on your bills or struggling to make payments. They can discuss your situation and provide support, such as setting up a payment plan or seeing if you are eligible for any grants.

You can also check on Lightning Reach, a financial support portal which will show you any grants you may be able to apply for, based on your personal circumstances.

For example the British Gas Energy Trust will consider grant applications from anyone, regardless of who your energy supplier is. The Trust helps families and individuals experiencing hardship who are struggling with energy debts.

You could get £150 off your energy bills this winter under the Warm Homes Discount scheme, if you get the guaranteed element of pension credit or you are on a low income and have high energy costs.

If you’re eligible you may have already been contacted about this, but letters are still arriving until January. You can check your eligibility online. If you are eligible, the discount will be automatically applied to your energy account.

If you can’t afford to top up a pre-payment meter, you might be able to get a fuel voucher. Your local council might be able to help with this, or you can speak to an energy advisor.

If you’re over state pension age, you may still be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payments under the new rules, if you were eligible for a qualifying benefit (including pension credit) in the week of September 16 to 22.

If you haven’t already checked your eligibility for pension credit, do this as soon as possible. Claims can be backdated by three months, so you must make a claim by December 21 to be eligible for this year’s Winter Fuel Payment.

You may also get cold weather payments during cold spells if you claim certain benefits. You’ll get £25 each time the average temperature in your area is below zero degrees for seven consecutive days.

Connected For Warmth is a scheme offering free heating and insulation upgrades to low-income or vulnerable households. You can check your eligibility online.

You can seek free advice from a number of organisations, including the Marches Energy Agency, LEAP (Local Energy Advice Partners) and National Energy Action. Wrekin Housing Group customers can also access our energy advice service.

18th November 2024