Struggling households in Worcestershire are encouraged to determine if they are eligible for financial assistance of up to £500 to help with energy bills. To qualify for this support, residents must reside in specific districts within Worcestershire, such as Malvern, Worcester, Wychavon, Bromsgrove, Redditch, or Wyre Forest, and have an annual gross household income of £24,570 or less if single with no children. For other households, the income threshold is £31,000, excluding any additional benefits received.
Applicants must not have any household savings and must meet one of five vulnerability criteria, including receiving DWP benefits, being of state pension age, or having young children under four years old. Households with children under 18, or young adults up to 21 in full-time education, may receive up to £500 in energy assistance, while all other households could qualify for up to £300 in support.
The energy payments will be disbursed directly to the supplier or through Post Office vouchers for pre-payment customers. Interested individuals can apply for the scheme via the Act On Energy website. This initiative is part of the Household Support Fund, a fund allocated to local authorities to aid vulnerable families.
For those facing financial difficulties outside Worcestershire, it is recommended to contact their local council to inquire about available support. Various councils, such as Surrey County Council, are offering aid in the form of supermarket vouchers. In Nottingham, residents on low income or benefits are receiving £100 vouchers, with distribution ongoing until February 28, 2026. Wakefield Council is providing food vouchers to eligible households, and additional vouchers are forthcoming for different groups receiving Council Tax Support.
Residents are advised to check their eligibility and explore the support options available to them during these challenging times.