We've adopted an ECO Flexible Eligibility Statement of Intent - this declares our intention to assist those most likely to be in fuel poverty by helping improve the energy efficiency of their homes.
You're considered to be in fuel poverty if you spend more than 10% of your total household income on keeping your home warm enough for health and comfort.
While there are practical ways you can improve your energy efficiency to help reduce your heating costs, you may also be entitled to other help, such as:
Our Benefits and Contributions Advisors provide advice on the full range of welfare benefits and tax credits, including payments specifically for those most at risk from fuel poverty. You'll receive payments automatically if you already get qualifying benefits, so it's important to ensure you're claiming your full entitlement.
Winter Fuel Payment
If you were born on or before 5 May 1953, you could get a payment of between £100 and £300, tax free, to help pay your heating bills.
See further information about how to claim Winter Fuel Payment (GOV.UK).
Cold Weather Payment
If you receive Pension Credit or certain other benefits, you're automatically paid a Cold Weather Payment when the temperature reaches 0°C (32°F) or below, for 7 days in a row. You’ll get a payment of £25 for each 7 day period of very cold weather between 1 November and 31 March.
Tell your Pension Centre or Jobcentre Plus if you think you should have received a Cold Weather Payment but haven’t.
Warm Home Discount
The Warm Home Discount is a government scheme that offers a £140 discount off your energy bill.
You can qualify for the Warm Home Discount Scheme if you:
- get the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit
- are on a low income and meet your energy supplier’s criteria for the scheme
Find out more about the Warm Home Discount scheme (GOV.UK).