Philip Kelly, Aspire's Money Matters Specialist writes:

You can’t have failed to have noticed all the media coverage relating to how the cost of heating our homes is going to increase during 2022. Increases may not yet have affected those on fixed tariffs but will very likely impact them when their fixed rate period comes to an end.

There is expectation that in April the 'energy price cap' (the maximum amount energy companies can charge on the variable rate) will increase for the 3^rd time in the last year.  It is also anticipated that although there may be excessive spikes in the coming months the cost of energy is likely to remain high for the coming years as well. With this in mind a key question to ask is:

What energy saving grants or free advice is available that can help improve home energy efficiency for now and the coming years?

There are a number of initiatives that exist in the UK aimed at supporting people in a range of circumstances, such as low household income, in receipt of qualifying benefits, have health conditions or in retirement and on a low income.

Have a look at the website that covers where you are in the UK to see if you qualify for financial support or free advice to help you achieve greater energy efficiency and reduce ongoing costs:

• If you live in England, you may be eligible for the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme, which obliges energy companies to install energy efficiency measures in the homes of those who need them most.
• If you live in Scotland, check with Home Energy Scotland. Their advisors offer free, impartial advice on energy saving and reducing water use, among others.
• In Wales, if you’re struggling to keep your home warm or cope with your energy bills, the Nest scheme offers a range of free advice. If you are eligible, you may be able to apply for a package of free home energy efficiency improvements.
• If you’re based in Northern Ireland, contact NI Energy Advice to find out more about energy efficiency grants that may be available.

It’s not just about becoming energy efficient, if you have any concerns paying any bills or commitments such as water, council tax, credit, loans, rent or mortgage always talk to your provider as soon as possible so that can work with you to overcome difficult times.

During 2022, why not keep in touch with our Aspire Money Matters Blog for regular updates on the energy situation including news on additional government support that may be put in place

If you need any further help or just want to talk things through Aspire's Money Matters offers free impartial guidance to people affected by Spinal Cord Injury about effective budgeting, keeping control of finances and, where needed, help to become debt free.

For free and impartial guidance call our Money Matters Specialist on 020 8420 8960.

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