WORRIED ABOUT HEATING YOUR HOME?

With energy bills likely to soar this winter, Age UK B&NES is urging people to see if they are eligible for the Warm Home Discount Scheme which saves households £140 off their electricity bill. The charity is concerned that for some, the rising prices could mean choosing between heating or eating. They are encouraging older people to take advantage of their free service, which checks eligibility of benefits. AgeUK’s Information and Advice Team can do a simple check to see what you are entitled to and can save you vital money each year. Information & Advice Manager, Gill Adams, said: “We know that affording to heat your home through Autumn and Winter is often a worry for people. With price rises, it is likely that everyone is going to feel the pinch, meaning that people on low incomes could really struggle. “We help hundreds of people a year save money on their energy bills and would really encourage people over 65 to give us a call and see if they could be saving - many people do not even realise they are eligible!” The Warm Home Discount Scheme is different to the Winter Fuel Allowance which all people of pension age receive. It is a one-off payment of £140 paid through your supplier, taking money off your electricity bill. Pre-payment meters and pay as you go meters are included. If you receive pension credit or are on a low income, you could be eligible. I & A Manager, Gill Adams, continues: “Everyone deserves to live in a warm home that can be affordably heated and whilst there are a great many ways to save energy, ultimately, if you are struggling to pay a bill or keep up payments it is your energy company’s duty to help.” AgeUK Bath & North East Somerset’s Information and Advice Team can be contacted on 01225 466135 or advice@ageukbanes.co.uk