Warm Front energy help scheme

National Energy Action is warning that the UK Government's flagship scheme to help the poorest households in England to make their homes warmer and cut their energy bills, is set for up to a £30 million underspend this year! This means many older people, families and people with long-term health problems will miss out out on much needed help.

The Warm Front Scheme, which offers heating and insultaion imporvements to households living on low incomes, is expected to see up to a fifth of its £143 million funding for this year going unclaimed! This money could help 16,000 households struggling to afford their energy bills to cut their costs by a potential £650 per year.

National Energy Action is urging people to put in a claim now, before the funding for this year ends on March 31st. People on certain income-related benefits and living in homes that are poorly insulated or do not have a working central heating system are eligible for Warm Front Grants. Anyone who is eligible for Cold Weather Payments can claim the grant such as; older people receiving Pension Credit; families with a child under five and in receipt of Income Support, Income Related Employment and Support Allowance or income based Jobseekers Allowance; and people with higher rate disability premiums.

For more information on the help available or to submit a Warm Front Application, please contact Peter Hirschfeld, Energy Advice Officer on 01430 434047 or 07730 661753 or email peter.hirschfeld@hwrcc.org.uk