Since the government announced that it was cutting the winter fuel payment for pensioners who don’t qualify for pension credit, many people are worried about being able to afford their energy bills this winter.
The government has pointed out that many eligible pensioners have not claimed the pension credit that they are entitled to, but the application form is long and off-putting. Check the website gov.uk/pension-credit/eligibility
The rise in the energy price cap from October 1st means that bills are predicted to go up 10 per cent to an average of £1,717 a year, with further rises forecast for 2025.
But the winter fuel payment isn’t the only option for managing bills. Have a look at the regulator Ofgem’s website, ofgem.gov.uk, where a guide lists all the grants and schemes available. The website also sets out what you can expect your energy supplier to do if you call and say that you can’t afford your bills.
If you need some help getting started, fantastic charities such as Scope and Citizens Advice can tell you about the benefits and help that you might qualify for.
The Priority Services Register is a free service where you can get additional support with a utility bill, not just gas and electricity. Your age and disability may qualify you to go on the register, but many others may also be able to get help, depending on their needs.
Contact your energy supplier and say you want to go on the register. Once on, the energy firm must prioritise your situation and make allowances for the expenses relating to your specific needs. If a firm knows that a customer is on the register, it must also provide help and assistance if bills are not affordable.
Suppliers should offer a tailored plan to support vulnerable customers. Ofgem recommends steps such as reviewing payments, offering payment breaks or reductions, extending payment deadlines, providing access to hardship funds, and giving advice on cutting energy usage.
Energy firms also have energy or heating grants for customers. Apply through the energy firm to see if you qualify.
And the government’s Warm Home Discount Scheme is due to reopen in October 2024. This is a discount applied directly to energy bills. You can find out more at Warm Home Discount Scheme: Overview - GOV.UK
I appreciate that the scope of these schemes and discounts can be overwhelming, so speak directly to the charities I mentioned to get some advice about the help that is available. If you find that a bit daunting or just want to chat through what is involved and maybe get a little help with the form filling, Eynsham Good Neighbour Network may be able to visit you to help you find your way around the process. Their number is 07443 564516. You are not alone.
Eynsham Consolidated Charity provides small to medium sized grants to people living in the Parishes of Eynsham or Freeland who need financial help.
Please apply in confidence via the Clerk, Catherine Barton, by emailing eynshamcharities@gmail.com or by writing to the Trustees via the Clerk, c/o The Bartholomew Room, The Square, Eynsham, Oxfordshire OX29 4HW.
This article is adapted and based on a feature in The Times, by kind permission from the author, Martyn James, a consumer rights champion.