There are many types of financial support available for those struggling to pay energy and water bills and/or who need help with everyday costs of living and managing their money. Here are brief outlines, together with relevant links.
Winter Fuel Payment.
This is an annual payment.
You may qualify if you are entitled to Pension Credit or certain other State benefits. You will get a letter in October/November telling you how much you will receive.
More information can be found at www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment , or call the Winter Fuel Payment Centre on 08007310160.
Cold Weather Payments.
If you receive Pension Credit or certain other State benefits, you could qualify for Cold Weather Payments. The Government will pay £25 each time the temperature in your area is at zero C (32 F) or below for seven days in a row between 1 November and 31 March. This is paid to you automatically.
Warm Home Discount.
If you receive Guarantee Pension Credit or are on a low income and have high energy bills, you may qualify for a £150 discount on your electricity or gas bill. The Warm Home Discount Scheme applies from October 2025. More information can be found at www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme.
Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme.
If you are in fuel poverty or on a low income and vulnerable to the effects of a cold home, you may qualify for help to install or repair your cavity wall or loft insulation or to replace your window glazing or heating. More information can be found at
www.gov.uk/apply-great-british-insulation-scheme
Water Bills.
If you are having difficulty paying your water bill, there is a support available to help.
Information can be found at www.water.org.uk/customers/find-your-supplier.
Household Support Fund.
You may qualify for help if you are struggling to pay energy and water bills, or to buy food and essential items. You do not need to be receiving benefits to qualify for help from your local council and if you are receiving benefits, they will not be affected.
Each local councils decides how to run its own scheme, so you should check with your own council. More information can be found at www.gov.uk/find-local-council