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You are here: MHA Home > News & Blogs > News > Managing your household finances

Managing your household finances

30 June 2022
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The increasing cost of living means more older people are experiencing financial worries. We've put together some helpful tips and information that could help you to save money on your electricity, gas, and water bills. 

What energy-saving grants are available?

Winter Fuel Payment

If you were born on or before 26 September 1955, you may be entitled to the Winter Fuel Payment giving you between £100 - £300 each winter to help cover the cost of your heating bills. Once signed up, you’ll receive automatic payments every year.

If you haven't claimed for a Winter Fuel Payment before, and you’re claiming your State Pension or other benefits such as Pension Credit, contact the Winter Fuel Payment helpline to make a claim on 0800 731 0160. 

Or in Wales, there is a Winter Fuel Support Scheme where you could receive £100 for households that claim certain benefits.

Energy bills rebate

The government has introduced a package of support available in 2022 to help households with rising energy bills. For more information, visit the Gov.uk webpage >

Support to pay off your energy bill debts

If you find yourself in debt with your energy supplier, you might be able to get a grant to help you cover the cost.

These energy suppliers offer grants:

Or alternatively, if you're unable to get a grant from your supplier, check if you can get a grant from the British Gas Energy Trust you don’t have to be a British Gas customer to be eligible.

Help from your energy supplier

Many energy companies have schemes to help with home heating and energy costs. For example, by making your home more energy-efficient. Make sure you check with your supplier if there's any extra help they can provide. 

Green Deal Assessment 

There are some Green Deal improvements available at a discounted rate from the government. A Green Deal assessor will visit your home, you may be asked to pay for this but the assessor must specify the fee in advance. For more information, visit the Green Deal webpage >

Support from water companies

Check with your water provider as they may be able to offer:

  • Payment holidays
  • Flexible payment plans (weekly, fortnightly, monthly, annually)
  • Extended payment plans
  • Schemes that can decrease the amount you have to pay depending on your circumstances.

WaterSure scheme

There’s also the WaterSure scheme which is available to customers in receipt of income-related benefits who have a water meter and for households with a member, or members of the family with a medical condition that requires significant use of water. If you are eligible, your water and sewerage bill is capped at the cost of the company’s average household bill. 

Consider switching to a water meter

This is especially beneficial if your household has more people living in it than bedrooms, it's worth considering if a water meter might help with savings. This online calculator will be able to help. 

Other charities and organisations that offer support 

For people in Scotland, you can contact Advice Direct Scotland:

For people in Wales, you can also contact Advicelink Cymru:

 

Webpage last updated: 25 February 2022

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