Help for people struggling to pay energy bills

Warwickshire households that are struggling with energy bills can get help from a scheme that is open to applications until later this month.

Money has come from the Department for Work and Pensions' Household Support Fund.

The Warwickshire Local Welfare Scheme is distributing it by providing a one-off voucher to meet immediate need, Warwickshire County Council said.

Funding is limited, the council said, so the scheme will close on 28 March or sooner if all the cash is allocated before then.

Families and households in Warwickshire can apply whether they use pre-payment meters, pay by direct debit or on receipt of a bill.

People who are entitled to benefits or eligible for free school meals have already received the support as part of their cost-of-living payment, the council said.

Councillor Heather Timms, portfolio holder for environment, climate and culture, said: "The Warwickshire Local Welfare Scheme helps our most vulnerable residents at times of unavoidable crisis when they have no other means of help."

People can apply online or by contacting the local welfare scheme directly.

The council is also working with Act on Energy, an organisation that can provide free advice and help with arranging boiler services or repairs.

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