Tackling fuel poverty in 2024/25
Last year we assisted more than 5,800 households and responded to more than 8,800 phone calls.
Many of the residents we spoke to required urgent or short-term support. Their circumstances varied from mounting energy debt and risk of disconnection to living in a cold home and making do without heating or hot water.
For some, we were able to speak to their energy supplier on their behalf, discuss a fair and appropriate way forward and leave the client feeling more in control of their situation. By offering this level of support, we managed to clear vast amounts of energy debt across our region.
Other clients required more practical support within their homes. We accessed funding for boilers and heating systems that made life immediately more comfortable for affected residents by enabling them to heat their homes adequately and easily access hot water.
We expect an increase in demand for help this winter as energy costs remain high and Government policy changes emerge. Whatever happens, we’ll continue to guarantee our clients receive:
- A friendly voice on the end of the phone
- Personalised advice based on their unique circumstances
- Recommendations for funding and grant schemes they might be eligible for
- Referrals and support for additional services not directly related to energy, such as support groups and discount schemes
As an independent and impartial charity, we explore a wide range of funding opportunities and grant schemes that our clients could be eligible for.
We also explore opportunities for energy vouchers, energy debt relief schemes and priority services that will benefit our most vulnerable clients.
For residents affected by the change to the Winter Fuel Payment scheme, we’ll be keeping a close eye out for further announcements and any alternative support streams that might help our clients.
