Ways to save money
Priority services register
The Priority Services Register (PSR) is a free service provided by suppliers and network operators (UK Power Networks, SGN) to customers in need (each supplier and network maintain their own register). The PSR is available to residents who are of pensionable age, disabled or chronically sick, have a long-term medical condition, have a hearing or visual impairment or additional communication needs, are in a vulnerable situation. To be added to the Priority Services Register contact your energy supplier/ network provider.
Winter Fuel Payments
If you are over 60 you could be entitled to help with your heating bills.
If you think you qualify visit the GOV.UK website.
Cold Weather Payment
This payment is available to those on certain benefits or Support for Mortgage Interest.
Payments are made when your average local temperature is either recorded as, or forecast to be, an average of zero degrees Celsius or below over seven consecutive days.
The 2019 to 2020 Cold Weather Payment scheme has now ended. Next year's scheme will start on 1 November 2020. You can find more information out about this payment on the Cold Weather Payment section of the GOV.UK website
Warm Homes Discount Scheme
The Warm Home Discount Scheme is available to those households on income related benefits.
This programme is run by the government and energy suppliers to provide rebates on the electricity bills of households that need it most. The Warm Home Discount Scheme offers eligible customers a yearly one-off payment on their electricity bill between January and March.
If you think you qualify visit the Warm Home Discount Scheme section of the GOV.UK website. You may also wish to contact your own energy supplier(s) to see if they have any current schemes that may help you with energy debt or discount schemes.
Cold Weather Priority Initiative
The Federation of Petroleum Suppliers (FPS) is launching a Cold Weather Priority (CWP) Initiative for the off-grid sector from October 2020.
This initiative has been developed to identify those most at risk, and ensure delivery to these customers can be prioritised during periods of extreme cold, or fuel shortages.
To check if your local supplier is involved visit the cold weather priority website
Support with Energy Cost Arrears
Some utility companies offer help to customers who are struggling to pay their energy bills.
You can visit the websites of those energy providers who may be able to offer you help, by clicking on their website link below;