As winter approaches, many UK households are feeling the pinch of rising energy costs. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has stepped in to clarify the support options available for those struggling to keep up with their bills.
What Help Is Available?
The DWP has confirmed several avenues of assistance, including:
- Winter Fuel Payment: A tax-free payment for eligible pensioners to help with heating costs.
- Cold Weather Payment: A £25 payment for each seven-day period of very cold weather (below 0°C) for those on certain benefits.
- Warm Home Discount Scheme: A one-off discount of £140 on electricity bills for eligible low-income households.
Additional Support
For those not eligible for the above schemes, the DWP advises contacting your energy supplier directly. Many providers offer:
- Flexible payment plans tailored to your financial situation.
- Hardship funds for customers in severe financial difficulty.
- Energy efficiency advice to help reduce future bills.
The DWP stresses that no one should go cold this winter and encourages anyone worried about their energy bills to explore these options as soon as possible.
