Struggling with Energy Bills? Here’s How to Get Help

Hey there! Are you struggling to pay your energy bills? Don’t worry, there’s help available to make things easier for you. Your energy supplier is legally required to offer financial assistance, and there are various sources of advice and funding providers that you can reach out to. Green Doctors provide free tailored advice to help you reduce waste, save energy, and stay warm. You can find more information on the Groundwork website. Also, check out our energy bill money-saving tips.

If you have large arrears on your gas, electricity, or water bills, you can ask your utility company for help. Some companies can even help with energy-related costs such as white goods and heating repairs through ‘Further Assistance Payments’. Here are some energy providers that offer help:

– The British Gas Energy Trust
– EDF Energy Trust
– E.on Energy Fund
– E.on Next Energy Fund (previously NPower)
– Scottish Power Hardship Fund
– Ovo Energy Fund

If your energy company is not listed here, you can find their contact details on your most recent bill or on their website.

The priority service register gives you advance notice of planned power cuts, priority support in an emergency, accessible information, and more. If you’re eligible, you can request to be added to the register by asking your supplier. Eligible people include those in receipt of a pension, disabled or chronically sick, with a long-term health condition, in a vulnerable situation, or with a hearing or visual impairment.

You can also apply for financial support through various schemes:

– Warm Homes Discount: Get up to £140 off your energy bill over winter.
– Cold Weather Payment: Receive £25 for each consecutive 7-day period where the average temperature in your area is 0°C or below.
– Winter Fuel Payment: If you were born on or before 5 October 1954, you could get between £100 and £300 to help pay heating bills across winter.
– Fuel Direct: Have your energy bill paid directly out of any benefits you may claim.

For more help and support, visit the cost of living support section of our website. And if you’re facing challenges, Kent Together is here to help you find the support that’s right for you.