Warwickshire residents are being encouraged to check what help is available to manage their energy bills now the latest increase in the energy price cap has come into effect.
Warwickshire County Council is reminding households that a range of support is available through its Cost of Living website and hotline (0800 408 1449), including free, impartial energy advice, information on government schemes and practical tips to reduce household energy costs.
Residents can also access information about a range of support schemes that may help eligible households with energy costs, including Warm Home Discount, Winter Fuel Payment and Cold Weather Payments.
Heating oil support
Eligible Warwickshire residents who rely on heating oil or LPG to heat their homes can access additional support available through the Government-funded Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF), which provides short-term emergency assistance to households experiencing an immediate financial crisis.
Residents on low incomes who rely on heating oil or LPG and are struggling with rising costs may be able to receive financial support if they are at risk of running out of fuel and cannot afford to top up their supply.
For more information or to apply, visit the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) - Warwickshire County Council website or call 0800 4081448.
Free advice around household energy
Whether you're looking to reduce your energy bills, make your home more energy efficient, or better understand the support available to you, Act on Energy provides free, impartial energy advice and support to Warwickshire residents.
For more information, call 0800 988 2881 or visit Energy Advice & Support in Warwickshire | Act on Energy.
Financial support in a crisis
The Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) can provide short-term support where someone is facing an immediate crisis and cannot meet essential living costs through their own income, savings, or other available support.
The CRF supports low-income households experiencing an unexpected financial shock, such as an urgent expense or sudden loss of income. Emergency assistance may be available to help meet essential living costs where there are no other reasonable options available.
In addition to providing immediate support, the CRF aims to help people build longer-term financial resilience by identifying wider advice, support and services that may help address the underlying causes of financial hardship and reduce the risk of future crisis.
Cllr Mike Bannister, Portfolio Holder for Resources and Internal Affairs said: "Many households across Warwickshire continue to feel the pressure of higher living costs, and the latest increase in energy prices may be worrying for many people.
"Support is available, whether you need advice on reducing your energy use, help understanding the support schemes you may be entitled to, or assistance if you are struggling to pay your bills. There is also specific support for residents on low incomes who rely on heating oil or LPG.
"I would encourage anyone who is concerned about their energy costs to visit our Cost of Living website, or give us a call on the 0800 408 1449 hotline, and let us see how we can help you."
Further information is available via Warwickshire's Cost of Living website - https://www.costoflivingwarwickshire.co.uk/ - and through Act on Energy.