Fuel support and energy costs
If you are on a low income or receive benefits, there are several ways you can get support with your energy bills. This includes discounts, grants, advice, and help with making your home more energy efficient.
Warm Home Discount Scheme
This scheme is currently closed and will reopen in October 2025, for more information visit Warm Home Discount Scheme on GOV.UK.
Help with energy-saving improvements
You might be able to get help to make your home warmer and cheaper to run, especially if you:
- get certain benefits
- live in social housing
- have a low income
Support may include:
- Energy Company Obligation (ECO) - for people on benefits or in social housing
- Great British Insulation Scheme - for homes with certain council tax bands or lower energy ratings
- Warm Homes Local Grant - for people in specific postcode areas or on a low income
LEAP (Local Energy Advice Partnership)
LEAP is an energy and money saving service that is helping people keep warm during the colder months and reduce their energy bills without costing them any money.
You can check your eligibility, apply directly or arrange for a telephone energy advice appointment on their website.
Struggling to pay your energy bills?
If you are behind on payments or cannot afford to top up your prepayment meter, the following help is available:
- Fuel Vouchers - you may be able to get a voucher if you can't afford to top up. Contact your energy supplier or Citizens Advice Southend may be able to help you
- Temporary Credit - ask your energy supplier if they can provide this. You will need to pay it back later
Where to get advice and help
- Citizens Advice Southend - they have energy specialists who can give free advice and support. Call: 08082 78 79 78 or visit their website to find out more.
- Energy Saving Trust - tips to lower your bills
- National Energy Action (NEA) - advice for people in need: call 0800 304 7159 (Mon to Fri, 10am to 12pm)
- British Gas Energy Trust - grants available to British Gas and non-British Gas customers
- E.ON Next Energy Fund - help with bills or replacing broken appliances
- OVO Energy Support - help with debt and energy bills
- Community Energy Pathways - energy advice and energy planning
Switching suppliers and finding a better deal
If you pay your energy company directly (including prepayment), you have the right to switch suppliers. This could save you money.
You can:
- Ask your current supplier if they have a better deal
- Compare deals from other suppliers - they usually handle the switch for you, do not worry - there will not be an interruption to your supply
Priority Services Register
If you are elderly, disabled, or have a long-term health condition, you can sign up for extra support through your energy company.
This service includes:
- priority help if your energy supply is disrupted
- information in different formats (like large print, braille, or other languages)
To apply, contact your energy supplier or network operator.
You can also find out more on the Ofgem website.