Cost of Living Support

Age UK Bath & North East Somerset
Alexander House
James Street West
Bath
BA1 2BT
United Kingdom

Email: advice@ageukbanes.co.uk
Telephone: 01225 466135

With the Cost Of Living having an impact on everyone's bills, it's important to understand what help is available and what cost of living payments you're eligible for because you could be missing out.

From paying energy bills, claiming extra benefits and other financial support, we’ve gathered information below to answer your questions and point in you in the right direction.

Worried about energy bills?

If you're finding it hard to keep up with energy payments or you're worried you won't be able to afford the energy you need this winter, you might be entitled to financial support.

⚫ Warm Home Discount Scheme
This is a one-off payment to help with the cost of energy over winter. It's usually added as credit to your electricity bill. This winter the payment is for £150.

You're entitled to this if you or your partner receive the Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit or if you're on certain qualifying benefits and have high energy costs. You should get the discount automatically, but if you don't but believe you qualify, don't wait—contact us before 29 February 2024.

⚫Winter Fuel Payment
You could be entitled to an annual one-off payment from the government of £100-£300 depending on how old you are, who you live with and any benefits you receive. This year eligible households will get an extra £300 top-up to help with the cost of living.

If you're over State Pension age - which is currently 66 years old – and receive the State Pension then you should be paid automatically. Payments are usually made between November and December.

Not receiving benefits?
☎ If you're not currently claiming means-tested benefits, such as Pension Credit, it's worth putting in a claim as soon as possible as you may be entitled. To find out more speak to our advisors 01225 466135.

Not sure what you're entitled to?
☎ We can help you work out if you think you are missing out on any money. Give our friendly team of advisors a call on 01225 466135.

Alternatively, our Benefits Calculator can help you find out what benefits you could be owed. It's free to use and the details you provide are kept anonymous.

Benefits Calculator. Money in your Pocket.

https://benefitscheck.ageuk.org.uk/Home/Start/

What Other Financial Support is Available?

★NEW: Household Support Fund
Are you in desperate need for financial help with the rising cost of food, energy and bills?
Age UK Bath & North East Somerset has received an extension of funds until the end of March. This allows us to provide financial grants to people over pension age who are struggling with their bills during the winter.
We encourage anyone in need to please reach out to us for assistance.

☎ Please contact us on 01225 466135 or email us on advice@ageukbanes.co.uk

⚫ One-off payments
This year you may also be entitled to one or more lump-sum payments.
These are:
‣ a £300 Pensioner Cost of Living Payment for households that receive the Winter Fuel Payment. This is a top-up to your Winter Fuel Payment in November/December.
‣ a £900 Cost of Living Payment split into 3 payments for households on a qualifying means-tested benefit.
‣ a £150 Disability Cost of Living Payment for those receiving disability benefits, such as Attendance Allowance.

Other useful sources of support

‣ B&NES Community Wellbeing Hub 0300 247 0050
‣ Bath & North East Somerset Council Welfare Support 01225 477277
‣ Bath & North East Somerset Council Cost of Living Support

https://livewell.bathnes.gov.uk/money-and-finances/cost-living-information

‣ The Wellbeing Hub

https://communitywellbeinghub.co.uk/

‣ Age UK National

Our Information & Advice Team are here for you. 01225 466135

If you would like Information & Advice on other aspects of later life please visit this page.