I want Mumsnet users to know that my number one priority as Energy Secretary is making energy affordable for all. That’s why on my first day in the job, we cut VAT on electricity bills, which will kick in from 1 October. I’ve written to energy suppliers to make sure these savings reach every one of you, no matter what tariff you’re on. This action was just the first step.
A down payment to give households much-needed breathing space on the cost of living this coming winter. Another way we are helping is through our Warm Home Discount.
The idea is simple. Those who need most help heating their homes during the coldest months of the year get £150 off their electricity bill.
Our decision to expand this discount means around six million households are eligible.That is every household where the billpayer or their partner is on qualifying means-tested benefits.
I want to make sure as many people as possible get the discount they are entitled to.That’s why I am giving a reminder to Mumsnet users today.
If you are eligible, please check you are named on your electricity bill, to ensure your £150 comes through automatically later this year.
There are many reasons why someone might not be named on their bill.
You may have moved house recently. Or your bill may be in a partner’s name, a family member’s name, or someone else’s name that you live with.
Most importantly, this needs to happen by Sunday 23 August.
Those on pre-payment meters who use a key or card to top up will also need to make sure their household’s account is registered in the eligible person’s name.
So please take a few minutes now to check. And if you know someone who could benefit, help us spread the word.
A reminder from a friend, neighbour or family member could make all the difference between someone getting this support automatically or missing out.
The cost of living is the number one issue people raise with me. And while I know the Warm Home Discount won’t solve everything, when people are under pressure, every pound helps. It helps provide a little bit of breathing space while we get on with the job of tackling the cause of sky-high energy bills.
You’ll all understand that the wars in Iran and Ukraine have been pushing prices up, which is why we want to generate our own homegrown power – from solar panels, windfarms and other renewable sources of energy. It’s also how we will cut energy bills for good, bring jobs back to communities and protect our children and grandchildren from climate change.
We want to create a country where we feel hopeful again. On the path there, the Warm Home Discount can help. So let’s make sure the people who need it, get it.
I live in England and Wales. Am I eligible?
People in receipt of the following benefits, who are named on their electricity bill by 23 August, are eligible:
- Housing Benefit
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
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I live in Scotland. Am I eligible?
People in receipt of the following benefits, who are named on their electricity bill by 23 August, are eligible:
- Those who receive Pension Credit
- Those receiving Universal Credit, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, or Support for Mortgage Interest, as long as the household also includes very young children, someone with a disability, someone with a health-related work limitation, or someone who is eligible for disability-related additions within the benefits system.