A heating trade association is offering new guidance to help vulnerable households reduce their energy costs and stay warm over the winter period.

The government’s latest fuel poverty report published earlier this year revealed an estimated 13.1% of households in the south west are in 'fuel poverty'.

In response OFTEC, a registration body for off-gas grid heating technicians, has published information about energy payment and saving schemes available to help reduce fuel costs.

The Winter Fuel Payment is available for most people born before 25 September 1957 to help with heating costs. This is a tax-free payment of between £250 and £600 paid between November and December.

If you receive Pension Credit you may be able to claim the Cold Weather Payment of £25 for each 7-day period of very cold weather between November 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024.

Pension Credit also means you may be entitled to a Warm Home Discount £150 applied directly to your electricity bill between October 2023 and March 2024.

The Energy Companies Obligation (ECO) scheme helps households living in fuel poverty make energy efficiency upgrades to their home, including installing insulation or upgrading a heating system.

Malcolm Farrow, from OFTEC, said: “Sadly we know that the impact of the current cost of living crisis means many will struggle to heat their homes this Christmas.

“The latest fuel poverty report is deeply worrying and it’s shocking that so little progress has been made in tackling this issue in recent years. That’s why, this year more than ever, it’s crucial households are aware of the support available to help them keep warm and well.”

More information can be found at www.oftec.org.