Households facing challenges with their energy expenses are being encouraged to verify their eligibility for cost of living assistance worth up to £500. The aid is being provided by Act on Energy, an energy advice charity, to households residing in Stratford-on-Avon. Individuals may qualify for support if they require heating system repairs, replacements, or enhancements.
To be considered for the assistance, households must have a gross income below £31,000 and have a vulnerable individual residing with them. Vulnerabilities can include unmanageable debt, long-term health conditions, disabilities, receipt of benefits-related free school meals, pregnancy, or young children under five years old.
Act on Energy noted that other vulnerabilities could also be taken into account. If unsure about eligibility, individuals are advised to contact Act on Energy for clarification. For energy payments, households should not have significant savings. Families with children under 18 may receive up to £500, while individuals or couples could be eligible for £300.
The financial aid is disbursed directly to the energy supplier or as a voucher for prepayment customers. For “Physical Intervention” applications, the savings limit is up to £6,000 per adult receiving state pension, including funeral plans.
Applicants can submit their requests online via the Act on Energy website or by calling 0800 988 2881. This initiative coincides with the upcoming increase in energy bills for the winter season. The price cap is set to rise by 2% starting in October, resulting in higher gas and electricity costs for consumers. Ofgem estimates that average dual fuel households paying by direct debit will experience an annual bill increase from £1,720 to £1,755.
Moreover, the price cap for pre-payment meter users will rise from £1,672 to £1,707 per year, and for bill payers, it will increase from £1,855 to £1,890 annually. It is important to note that while there is a price cap on unit rates and standing charges, there is no cap on overall energy expenses. Standing charges are fixed daily fees for network connection, irrespective of energy usage, and the price cap adjustments occur quarterly in January, April, July, and October.