Swindon Borough Council has announced that 1,923 local households will receive energy vouchers as part of a £385,000 initiative to help residents cope with rising energy costs.
These vouchers are being issued through the Household Support Fund, which the Council was allocated in early October following a £1.5 million grant from the Government.
The energy vouchers are intended to provide vital assistance to vulnerable households, particularly pensioners and those facing fuel poverty. With energy prices expected to rise again in the New Year, as Ofgem’s energy price cap increases on 1 January 2025, this support could not come at a more crucial time.
The vouchers will be distributed to low-income pensioners just above the Pension Credit threshold and other vulnerable individuals who need help managing the cost of their energy bills during the winter months. The Council will contact eligible residents directly to provide further information on how they can claim the support.
In addition to the energy vouchers, £81,000 was allocated earlier this month through the Household Support Application Fund, which will assist residents in need of food and heating support. Furthermore, the Council will spend another £585,000 on food vouchers to support families over the school holidays.
Residents who believe they may be eligible for Pension Credit are urged to apply before the 21 December deadline. A successful application not only provides access to Pension Credit but also triggers eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment, which offers £200 for those under 80 and £300 for those over 80. Claims can be made online via www.gov.uk/pension-credit or by calling 0800 991234.
Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of the Council, emphasised the importance of taking advantage of this support as temperatures continue to drop. “It’s vital that residents focus on their wellbeing and keep warm by accessing the funding available. We’ve been working closely with local partners to ensure that those who need help receive it,” he said.
For further details on how to access the Household Support Fund, residents are encouraged to visit the Swindon Borough Council website and search for ‘Household Support Fund.’
