We are all feeling the pinch as the fuel crisis escalates.  However, there are some things that you can do right now that might help alleviate some of the pressure. The government has a number of different schemes that you can apply for, depending on your personal circumstances, and there are people out there that you can  speak to if you need help wading through the information.

You can also get help through the Household Support Fund. If you are struggling to afford food, utility bills or other essentials then you can apply for help from the fund, click on the bar below to find out more.

On 8 September 2022 the government announced the Energy Price Guarantee.

The package provides support to consumers with the spiralling cost of energy bills. This will reduce a domestic consumer’s bill to an average cost of £2,500 and will remain in place for 2 years. The Energy Price Guarantee will start on 1 October 2022 and effectively replaces the Energy Price Cap.

The government is providing extra support with energy bills over the winter months through the Energy Bills Support Scheme. All households with a domestic electricity connection in Great Britain are eligible for the £400 discount.

There is no need to apply; energy suppliers will pay the grant over six months. However, it is important that you have an account with your supplier and they have your correct contact details, particularly if you are on traditional prepay meters.  Payments start from October 2022, to ensure households receive financial support.

The Government are also providing £25 extra a week if you’re getting certain benefits during the winter when the temperature is zero or below for more than seven days.

If you're in debt to your energy supplier, you might be able to get a grant from a charitable trust to help pay it off.

When you apply for a grant, you'll have to provide detailed information about your financial situation in your application. It could take a while to complete, and it might be worth getting help from a friend or family member. You can also talk to an advisor for help to fill in forms.

Charitable trusts like you to show that you have received debt advice before you apply. Debt advice can help you manage your debts and increase your chances of making a successful application. - Contact Citizens Advice West Devon (0808 2787948).

There have been reports of energy suppliers moving vulnerable clients onto prepayments meters. 

However, energy suppliers can’t make      you do this if it wouldn’t be safe or practical. 

You  can refuse to move to prepayment if you have an illness or disability which means you would be harmed if your gas or electricity was cut off. You can also refuse if you wouldn't be able to get to or use your meter. 

More information on stopping a supplier moving you to prepayment can be found on the Citizens Advice website.