Households facing challenges with their energy expenses are being encouraged to verify if they qualify for cost of living assistance valued at up to £500. The aid is being provided by energy advice charity Act on Energy to households residing in Stratford-on-Avon. Eligibility for support extends to those needing heating system repairs, replacements, or enhancements. To qualify for assistance, households must have a gross income below £31,000 and have a vulnerable individual residing with them.
Qualifying vulnerabilities include unmanageable debt, long-term health conditions, disabilities, receipt of benefits-related free school meals, pregnancy, or having children under five. Act on Energy may consider other vulnerabilities as well. Individuals unsure of their eligibility are advised to contact Act on Energy for clarification.
For energy payments, applicants should not have household savings. Families with children under 18 could receive up to £500, while singles and couples may be eligible for £300. The funds are provided directly to the energy supplier or as a voucher for prepayment customers. For “Physical Intervention” applications, the savings limit is up to £6,000 per adult receiving state pension, including funeral plans.
Applications can be submitted online through the Act on Energy website or by calling 0800 988 2881. This initiative coincides with an impending increase in energy bills this winter, as the price cap is set to rise by 2% in October. Ofgem forecasts that the average dual fuel household paying by direct debit will witness an annual energy bill increase from £1,720 to £1,755.
The price cap for prepayment meter users will rise from £1,672 to £1,707 annually, while those paying upon receipt of bills will see an increase from £1,855 to £1,890 per year. It’s important to note that there is no definitive cap on energy costs, as the price cap regulates unit rates of gas and electricity along with standing charges. Standing charges, which are daily fees for network connection, are applicable regardless of energy usage and are subject to adjustment every three months – in January, April, July, and October.