Winter Warmth
Published on 12 November 2023 09:30 AM
Winter is often an expensive time of year. If you're worrying more about money, you might be entitled to a bit of extra financial support, and a few simple changes to your home could help save you money this winter.
Check you're getting all the help you're entitled to.
Now's a good time to check your finances and make sure you're receiving the benefits you’re entitled to. There are a number of financial help schemes that can help with your energy bills this winter.
This is an annual tax-free payment to help with heating costs. Make sure you're registered to get it – once you are, you'll receive it every year without having to do anything.
If it's very cold where you live (at or below 0 degrees) for a period of time, and you're receiving certain benefits, you may be eligible to receive £25 a week for each 7-day period of cold weather.
This is a discount on your electricity bill. You may be able to get it if you get Pension Credit or are on a low income.
These are one-off payments for households on means-tested benefits, such as Pension Credit and Universal Credit.
If you're receiving Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance, you may be able to get a Budgeting Loan to help with unexpected expenses. If you’re receiving Universal Credit you may be able to get other financial support.
Get your home ready for winter
It's cheaper and easier to heat your home if it's well-insulated and your heating works properly. Here are a couple of things you could do to get your home ready for winter:
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Have your heating system serviced each year and check that it's working before the cold weather starts. If you rent your home, your landlord should check your gas heating system and appliances for safety at least once a year.
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Draught-proof doors and windows, insulate the loft, the hot-water tank and pipes, and consider getting cavity-wall insulation.
The government is investing £12 billion in Help to Heat schemes to make sure homes are warmer and cheaper to heat.
Find out if your property is eligible for Help to Heat schemes on GOV.UK