Wakefield Council wants residents to know that help is on hand with energy costs as autumn sets in.
The regulator’s price cap rises on 1 October, pushing bills to their highest point in three years, with a typical household on a dual-fuel variable tariff expected to pay around £60 more over the year.
Cllr Andrew Wakefield, Cabinet Member for Strategic Housing, Skills and Business Growth, said: “The rise in energy bills will be a real concern for many of our residents. Especially as colder weather approaches and people spend more time indoors. I’d encourage anyone who is worried about paying their energy bills to contact us for advice and support. We can help residents understand what assistance is available and whether they are eligible for any of our schemes.”
Anyone struggling to keep on top of their energy bills may qualify for help through the council’s Energy Debt Fund, which offers grants to clear existing energy debt and can also go towards future payments.
Essential heating
Separately, the Fuel Poverty Fund supports low-income homeowners who are struggling to afford essential heating repairs or upgrades and whose health could suffer as a result of living somewhere cold.
Anyone whose heating system has been condemned, has broken down, or is difficult to use because of illness or disability may qualify for a free replacement, with all the work carried out through the council’s approved contractor at no cost to the resident.
For broader money worries, the council also runs a free scheme called Money Smart, open to every resident in the district. It covers everything from budgeting and debt to mortgage troubles and other financial worries, aimed at helping people manage their money and get the most from their income.
Residents can find out more about the Energy Debt Fund, Fuel Poverty Fund and Money Smart service on Wakefield Council’s website. The Home Energy Team can be reached at energyteam@wakefield.gov.uk or 01924 305887, and the Money Smart Team at moneysmart@wakefield.gov.uk or 01924 305892.
