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Worried about energy bills?

The Government has announced that support is available to help with rising energy bills and increases.

Ofgem are offering practical advice and information for households that are having difficulties with their gas and electric bills. They also provide information about the Priority Services Register, which is a free support service to help people in vulnerable situations.

South East London Community Energy (SELCE)

South East London Community Energy (SELCE) has trained advisors who can support anyone who is struggling with bills or energy debt.

SELCE offers independent advice on reducing your bills and paying less for your electricity and gas. Home visits can be arranged to give extra support should you need it, where they can suggest ways to make your home more energy efficient.

The advisors can contact energy companies on your behalf and give you guidance for obtaining extra financial help, and on how to apply for discounts and grants. You can contact SELCE on:

Household Support Fund

The government has given local authorities some additional money to help local people who are struggling with the rising cost of living. The funding is intended to be used to support low-income households in need including, but not limited to, families with children of all ages, pensioners, unpaid carers, care leavers and disabled people.  It is particularly focused on those who may not be eligible for other forms of government support at this time.

The funds can be used to meet immediate needs and help those who are struggling with energy and water bills, food and other wider essentials. The support can be made through the provision of vouchers, payments into bank accounts, direct cash for food or the provision of goods to households.

It is a grant that you do not have to pay back.

Please note that this cannot be used to cover council tax, pay mortgages or personal debts.

Find out more about the Household Support Fund

Warm Home Discount Scheme

The Government has announced the Warm Home Discount Scheme where you could get £150 off your electricity bill for winter 2023 to 2024.

It is a one-off discount that is applied to your electricity bill automatically between early October 2023 and 31 March 2024, if you are eligible.

You may be able to get a discount on your gas bill instead of your electricity bill if your supplier provides you with both gas and electricity.

To find out more information about the scheme and if you are eligible, please visit the GOV.UK website.

Check if you are eligible