Where to go for help and advice

FREE

WANT TO REDUCE FUEL COSTS AND KEEP YOUR HOME WARM?

HERE IS A SIMPLE LIST OF USEFUL INFORMATION AND CONTACTS THAT MAY HELP

This information is for anyone - some grants may be available for people of a certain age or those on benefits, but not exclusively, so please have a read and if in doubt call and find out, most of the numbers are FREE or LOW-RATE.

HOME HEAT HELPLINE

The major fuel suppliers fund this helpline offering support to ANY customer so if you’re unsure of your suppliers contact details, or struggling to pay your fuel bill, or worried how you’re going to stay warm, the Home Heat Helpline will make it easier for you to find the answers. 0800 33 66 99

ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND GRANT ADVICE

ENERGY SAVING TRUST

FREE and impartial advice to save money and energy. You can find out how much you could save by making your home more energy efficient by completing the online Home Energy Check. You’ll receive a personalised report offering advice on how you could save around £200 per year on your energy bills. 0800 512 012

WARM FRONT

This scheme is for people on certain income-related benefits, who own their home or rent privately. Warm front provides a package of insulation and heating improvements such as new central heating system, cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, tank and pipe insulation, draught proofing up to the value of £3,500 or £6000 in some cases, check if you are eligible. 0800 316 2805

THE MARK GROUP

West Berkshire council endorses this insulation supplier, and until the end of 2011 they are able to offer free and discounted cavity wall and loft insulation. It is free to those over 70 or in receipt of benefits, or they can offer the works for £100 each to everyone else (subject to their property being suitable).

0800 616302.

YOUR LOCAL COUNCIL

They will have details of who they endorse to provide insulation at a free of discounted rate, and also may offer discretionary grants for people on benefits to make their homes more energy efficient.

REMEMBER -Your supplier may also have grants available so give them a call to find out.

WINTER FUEL PAYMENTS

Most people 60 or over can get this payment between £100 and £300 depending on your situation. Call the Winter Fuel Payments Helpline 0845 915 1515

COLD WEATHER PAYMENTS

If you’re on a low income, a Cold Weather Payment may be available to help you for each week of very cold weather in your area. You don’t need to apply; you’ll get a Cold Weather Payment automatically as long as you qualify. Tell your pension centre or Jobcentre Plus if you think you should have received a Cold Weather Payment but have not had one.

WARM HOME DISCOUNT SCHEME

This is a rebate off your winter electricity bill of £120 if you get the Guarantee credit element of pension credit, and your energy supplier is participating in the scheme – most are. Check your bill, and contact the Home Heat Helpline if you need to check your eligibility.

FUEL DEBT ADVICE

ENERGY TRUST FUND

Currently only British Gas and EDF Energy have created these, available to customers who have a debt they cannot pay. The fund can pay off debts making a fresh start and can also help with other household bills. British Gas http://www.britishgasenergytrust.org.uk, or EDF http://www.edfenergytrust.org.uk/, or call them and ask.

REMEMBER - If you are struggling financially and/or worrying about debt contact the CAB. They may also be able to identify benefits that you are entitled to. CAB West Berkshire – 0844 477 9980, Reading 0845 071 3679

SWITCHING SUPPLIERS

Many people on standard tariffs can currently save over £100 a year by switching to the cheapest online deals. Ofgem has forced energy providers to supply clearer information in an annual statement.

Get clear independent information from Cocoon, who offer an independant not-for-profit comparison and advice service. Call their energy switching helpline on 0800 310 2185, or go online at http://www.cocoonyourhome.co.uk/section/?sectionID=33&homeid=347

Alternatively you could use www.moneysavingexpert. com/utilities/you-switch-gas-electricity

CONSUMER DIRECT

Information on how to switch energy supplier, price comparison fact sheets and regionally based advisors on a range of issues.

08454 040506

DID YOU KNOW?

Did you also know that the big 6 suppliers offer SOCIAL TARIFFS, this means cheaper rates to vulnerable customers - call your supplier OR Home Heat Helpline and ask about their SOCIAL TARIFF.