Thousands of people are losing out on extra money towards their energy bills and have only days left to apply for the help.
The Government has admitted that "significantly more" people need to apply for the Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Funding (EBSS AF) and the Alternative Fuel Payment (AFP) schemes than have already done so, with the deadline of May 31 looming.
Both schemes were part of a range of cost of living support announced by the Government last year to help families cope with rising energy bills. Most households were paid £400 directly in six payments of £66 or £67 from October to March through the Energy Bills Support Scheme (EBSS). These payments were made automatically to the vast majority of families.
Read more: Energy bills could rise £30 for households to cover cost of customers who avoid paying
However, some households who had no relationship with an electricity company couldn’t receive this help directly and have until the end of the month to apply for help.
The two schemes are:
The Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Funding
EBSS AF opened in February and offers £400 to those who don’t have a direct relationship with a domestic electricity supplier, usually because they pay for their fuel through a third party such as a site owner, landlord or housing manager. Typically, this scheme would include farmers, park home residents, houseboats on a fixed mooring and those who live in partly or wholly self-funded care homes. It also applies to families who live off-grid. Figures show 3,830 customers in the North East have got their applications in so far. You can check if you are eligible and apply here. There is also a helpline on 0808 175 3287.
Alternative Fuel Payment
Poeple who use alternative fuels – such as heating oil, LPG or biomass – to heat their homes should have received an extra £200 via their electricity supplier, but you can apply if you couldn’t receive the support automatically. Households can get more details and apply via GOV.UK or contact a dedicated customer helpline on 0808 175 3943. If someone has previously applied and is unsure why their application has not been successful, they can also contact the helpline.
Minister for Energy Consumers and Affordability Amanda Solloway said: “Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine has had a devastating impact on energy prices around the world – we have acted quickly to help customers in the North East and across the UK with their bills. “This meant we covered around half of a typical household’s energy bill this winter, with most customers receiving this discount straight to their bills. But there are some groups we need to come forward to get their support – and there is still time to do so. “People could still receive hundreds of pounds in savings, so please don’t miss out – use our online portal and helplines to check if you’re eligible and get an application in before 31 May.”
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