Energy bills support scheme
The government will give every household in the country a discount of £400 off their electricity bill, via the Energy Bills Support Scheme. This discount will be automatically applied to your energy account for over 6 months.
The National Energy Price Guarantee
The government has set out decisive action to support people and businesses with their energy bills and tackle the root causes of the issues in the UK energy market through increased supply, ensuring the country is not left in the same position again. More information can be found on the GOV.UK Energy Price Guarantee website.
National cold weather payment
You may get a Cold Weather Payment if you are getting certain benefits. The Winter Fuel Payment is usually paid automatically in November or December if you are eligible.
National support with interest payments on mortgages or loans
If you are a homeowner on qualifying benefits, you might be able to get help towards interest payments on your mortgage or loans you have taken out for certain repairs and improvements to your home. For more information, visit GOV.UK Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI)
National Cost of Living Payments
Households on means-tested benefits, including Universal Credit, Pension Credit and Tax Credits, will receive a payment of £650 this year. This will be made automatically in two instalments, one in the summer and another in autumn. To check if you are eligible, visit the Cost of living support factsheet.
Advice for paying your energy bills
For more information, visit the Citizens Advice Somerset website. You can also phone the Citizens Advice Somerset Freephone Advice Line on 0808 27 87842 between 10am and 4pm Monday and Friday, and between 10am and 8pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Advice if you are in debt and worried about money
The Somerset Financial Well-Being Project gives free financial well-being information to anyone who lives or works in Somerset. Visit Westcountry Savings and Loans – SFWP for more information. Contact them on weekdays between 10am and 1pm on 0800 304 7041 or 03300 563994
Advice if you are struggling to pay your water bill
Wessex Water schemes are for anyone struggling to pay their water bill or who has fallen behind paying their water bill. Visit Reduced bill – Assist – Wessex Water for information about how to apply. Contact them by phoning 0345 600 3 600 on weekdays between 8am and 6pm.
Advice if you are struggling to pay household bills, rent or council tax
Citizen’s Advice Somerset can advise you on grants and benefits you may be able to get. Visit Citizens Advice – Get help with bills for more information.
Phone Somerset Adviceline on 0808 27 87842 between 10am and 4pm on weekdays.
Clients who are deaf or hard of hearing can phone the Citizens Advice Text Relay service on 03444 111 445.