Government support
The government understands that many people are worried about the impact of rising prices, with many of the most vulnerable households struggling to make their incomes stretch to cover the basics.
Winter energy support
High fuel costs are a big worry for many. In April 2023, households will see the end of the winter energy support of £66/£67 per month, and you may find that you will be paying more for your energy than you have been.
However, the government has extended the energy price cap (also called the Energy Price Guarantee) of £2,500 per year for a typical household until June 2023.
This is not the maximum a household could be charged, but based on typical consumption. What is fixed is the price per unit of energy and the standing charge, so being conscious of your energy consumption can still help with your fuel bills.
If you’re struggling to pay your rent or bills, please contact us to see how we might be able to help you.
2023 cost of living payments for low-income families
An additional £900 for eligible means-tested benefits claimants, including those on Universal Credit, Pension Credit and tax credits, starts in Spring and will go direct to bank accounts in three payments during the financial year.
- £301 – First Cost of Living Payment – during Spring 2023
- £300 – Second Cost of Living Payment – during Autumn 2023
- £299 – Third Cost of Living Payment – during Spring 2024
There will also be a separate £150 for disabled people payable in Summer 2023 and £300 for pensioners during Winter 2023/4 on top of their Winter Fuel Payments. Find out more information on the cost of living payments.
Warm home discount
You could get £150 off your electricity bill for winter 2022 to 2023 under the Warm Home Discount Scheme.
The money is not paid to you – it’s a one-off discount on your electricity bill, between October 2022 and March 2023.
You may be able to get the discount on your gas bill instead if your supplier provides you with both gas and electricity and you’re eligible. Contact your supplier to find out.
The discount will not affect your Cold Weather Payment or Winter Fuel Payment.
Eligibility
You qualify if you either:
- get the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit
- are on a low income and have high energy costs
Check if you’re eligible for the discount online
Pre-pay or pay-as-you-go meters
You can still qualify for the discount if you use a pre-pay or pay-as-you-go electricity meter.
Your electricity supplier can tell you how you’ll get the discount if you’re eligible, for example a voucher you can use to top up your meter.
Household Support Fund
There is further Government funding for the Household Support Fund which is distributed to English councils, who know their areas best and can offer direct support for those most in need in their region.
Funding is aimed at the most vulnerable and those who cannot pay for things like energy and water bills, food and essential items.
You do not have to be getting benefits to get help from your local council, and if you do get benefits, they will not be affected.
Local authorities can also issue food vouchers to families during the school holidays.
Budgeting loan
You may be eligible for a Budgeting Loan if you’ve been on certain benefits for 6 months. This can be used for household items, rent in advance and travelling costs
Check if you’re eligible for a Budgeting Loan