As energy prices soar, we at Citizens Advice know how worrying this is. We share some ways that may help you to reduce your bills.
Talk to your energy supplier If you’re in debt to your energy supplier, there are grants to help you pay it off. If you can’t afford to top up your prepayment metre, you could get temporary credit from your energy supplier.
Seek advice about switching your energy supplier Because many energy companies are struggling, you won't find as many tariffs as normal. If you don’t find a better tariff than the one you’re on, it’s probably better to wait until deals are available again.
Contact Better Housing Better Health: This service gives you access to impartial energy advice and free home energy visits. People who need it most could get extra support for energy improvements and fuel poverty grants. Call 0800 1070044
Emergency assistance to fix boilers - ECHO (Emergency Central Heating Offer) is a scheme that offers emergency assistance to fuel poor or vulnerable households to repair or replace broken or condemned boilers. Call 01372 738952
See if you are eligible for these benefits:
- Warm Home Discount: Gives you £140 off your electricity bill if you’re on a low income. If you get the guaranteed element of pension credit, an automatic discount should be applied. Check with your supplier to see if they offer the Warm Home Discount as not all of them do.
- Winter Fuel Payment: An annual one-off payment to help you pay for heating during the winter. You can usually get a Winter Fuel Payment if you were born on or before 26 September 1955. If you’re eligible, you should get this automatically. However, if you think you’re eligible and have not been receiving it you can contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre. Call: 0800 731 0160
Contact Citizen Advice West Oxfordshire for advice on 0808 278 7908 or Chat or call one of our energy advisers on 0808 223 1133.
