The UK is bracing for a chilly turn as November’s mild start gives way to sub-zero temperatures and potential snowfall in some areas next week. The NHS advises activating the heating when the mercury dips below 15°C to maintain health.
Yet, with energy bills soaring and energy debt climbing by 12% to £3.7bn, millions are anxious about affording the warmth they need.
Thankfully, many Brits won’t be left out in the cold. A plethora of support options are accessible, including government initiatives, council grants, and urgent aid.
Matthew Sheeran, a benefits specialist at Money Wellness, commented: “We help hundreds of people with problem debt daily who are missing out on money and support that they’re entitled to. There are several schemes available for households who are struggling with winter costs.”
“And energy providers are now much more in tune with how they can support customers in financial difficulty. People shouldn’t be afraid or embarrassed to get help.”
Cold Weather Payment – £25
Eligible Britons could receive a Cold Weather Payment of £25 when the average temperature in their area plummets below freezing for seven consecutive days between 1 November and 31 March. “The Cold Weather Payment is triggered when the average temperature in your area falls below 0°C (32°F) for seven consecutive days between 1 November and 31 March. Eligible households get £25 for each cold spell. You might qualify for the cold weather payment if you receive certain benefits, such as universal or pension credit. You might also be eligible if you have a severe disability premium, a child under 5 living with you or a child with a disability.”
Emergency credit – £10
“If you have a prepayment meter fitted and can’t afford to top it up, you can use your emergency credit, usually worth around £10 for gas and £5 for electricity.”
This emergency aid is available when the balance on your prepaid meter drops to 50p or less, but methods of accessing it vary by supplier and meter type. “You can use your emergency credit when the balance on your prepaid meter drops to 50p or less. How you access it will depend on your supplier and the type of meter you have; some will automatically enable emergency credit, while others require you to accept it manually.”
However, it’s important to note that any emergency credit used must be repaid upon the next top-up.
“But you’ll have to repay your emergency credit the next time you top up.”
Winter Fuel Payment – up to £300
“The Winter Fuel Payment provides a tax-free payment of between £100 and £300 to help older people keep warm during the colder months.”
“The government recently announced controversial changes to the qualifying criteria for the Winter Fuel Payment. From this winter, it will only be paid to those born before 26 September 1956 who receive pension credit. Anyone who doesn’t qualify for pension credit will no longer receive the payment.”
“Nearly 800,000 people who are entitled to pension credit aren’t currently claiming it meaning they will also miss out on the Winter Fuel Payment. Use our benefits calculator to quickly check if you’re eligible.”
Energy Company Obligation Scheme
“The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Scheme is a government-backed initiative requiring energy suppliers to help low-income, fuel-poor or vulnerable households improve energy efficiency. Support includes insulation and heating upgrades to reduce overall winter energy costs. Only medium and large energy suppliers are taking part in the initiative. Contact your supplier directly to see if they’re signed up and what help is available.”
Household Support Fund – up to £500
“In the Budget last week, the government announced it will provide £1bn to extend the Household Support Fund into 2025-26.”
“The Household Support Fund is a grant provided by local councils to help households needing urgent financial assistance. This might take the form of cash or vouchers for heating bills, essential supplies and other living costs. Each council chooses how it allocates its part of the Household Support Fund, so the help you get will depend on where you live.”
Warm Home Discount – £150
“The Warm Home Discount provides a one-off £150 discount on electricity bills for eligible households. This scheme supports people on a low income or those who receive the guarantee credit element of pension credit. If you’re eligible, your electricity supplier will apply the discount to your bill – it won’t be paid to you. You should receive a letter between October and December telling you when to expect your discount. If you think you’re eligible and haven’t heard anything by early January, call the Warm Home Discount helpline on 0800 030 9322.”
Energy hardship schemes and grants
“Most energy providers now offer some form of financial assistance to customers struggling to pay their bills.”
“What you’ll get will depend on your provider; some will offer money off your bills, while others might write off your debt or offer a grant to help.
“Even if your supplier is unable to help, you might be entitled to support from the British Gas Individuals and Families Fund whether you’re a customer or not. This scheme offers grants to any UK households struggling with energy costs.”
Warm spaces
“Warm spaces are locations where individuals can seek refuge from chilly homes during the day. These are typically community spots, like libraries or churches. However, several private businesses also extend their hospitality to provide assistance. In some warm spaces, complimentary hot beverages, Wi-Fi access, and charging facilities for phones and other electronic devices are available. Locate your closest warm space here or get in touch with your local council.”
