Apply now for Council’s Energy Crisis Support Scheme

Council News
Council News

Residents living in Rotherham can apply for the Council’s Energy Crisis Scheme from Monday 8 January 2024.

Payments of up to £250 will be available for household that are struggling to meet the costs of their energy bills as a result of the significant rise in energy costs.

This is the third Energy Crisis Support Scheme available for Rotherham residents from the Covid Recovery Fund, with a total of £550,000 of funding available to support grants across the borough.

Applicants must have no more than £150 a month left over after paying for all of their essential costs such as food, rent or mortgage and utility bills. The funding is not means tested and residents do not need to be claiming benefits in order to be eligible.

To qualify for the Energy Crisis Support Scheme, applicants will be asked to provide some basic information about their current financial situation, along with a recent bank statement where relevant, their most recent energy bill and estimated monthly expenditure and income.

Applications are assessed by specialist Council staff who can also offer advice on welfare benefit, training schemes or referrals to other relevant services, depending on the applicant’s circumstances.

Any applications submitted previously will be processed in accordance with the scheme conditions.

Rotherham Council’s Leader, Cllr Chris Read, said: “Across Rotherham, there are many families and households who are struggling to pay for their energy bills, despite costs falling compared with last year. This is why the Council is once again offering the Energy Crisis Support Scheme so that we can support our communities through another difficult period.

“The Energy Crisis Support Scheme will be able to support those most in need, helping to prevent them falling into further unaffordable debts, pre-payment metres from running out of credit, and families having to live in cold, unsafe conditions.”

The Energy Crisis Support Scheme was launched by the Council in 2022 as part of the Council’s Covid Recovery Fund. It has formed part of the £27 million package administered by the Council to support residents through the cost of living crisis, which has also included support with council tax bills, extra support for care leavers and the Open Arms support and advice network.

Further information about funding, advice and support during the cost of living crisis can be found online at www.rotherham.gov.uk/money-matters or contact our Customer Services on 01709 382121.

Published: 12th January 2024