Winter can be a difficult time of year financially; having the heating on means higher energy prices and Christmas can put extra strain on finances too. We have created a short guide on energy and benefits advice to help you and the person you care for prepare for the colder months.
Cost-of-living payments for 2023
- The second cost–of–living payment of £300 for 2023/24 will be made between 31 October and 19 November to all those in receipt of eligible means-tested benefits. Those in receipt of Tax credits only will receive their cost-of-living payment between 10 and 19 November.
- If you’re entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment for winter 2023 to 2024, you will get an extra £150 or £300 paid with your normal payment from November.
- Winter Heating Payment has been increased to £55.05 for winter 2023-2024 and will be paid between 6 – 12 November.
- Child winter heating payment is an annual payment of £235.70 for all families with a severely disabled child aged under 19. Payments will begin in November 2023.
- You could get £150 off your electricity bill for winter 2023 to 2024 under the Warm Home Discount Scheme. The money is not paid to you – it’s a one-off discount applied to your electricity bill between early October 2023 and 31 March 2024.
Tips to save energy
- Only put the amount of water in the kettle that you need
- Reduce your shower time by 2 minutes
- Use tumble dryers efficiently (or not at all)
- Turn off lights in the rooms that are not in use
- Don’t leave appliances on standby
- Draught-proof windows and doors
- Use your washing machine on a 30-degree cycle instead of higher temperatures.
You could get help to make your home warmer and more energy efficient with Home Energy Scotland. Check if you’re eligible: Help to get a warmer home · Home Energy Scotland
Benefit checks
It can be worthwhile checking that you are receiving all the benefits you are entitled to. We offer free benefit surgeries to make sure you and the person you care for are getting the benefits you’re entitled to. For more information: Free welfare rights and benefit advice for unpaid carers (vocal.org.uk)
Turn 2 Us has a free benefits calculator available on their website which can help you see what you’re entitled to:
Priority Services Register
The Priority Services Register (PSR) is free to join. It helps utility companies, including energy suppliers, electricity, gas and water networks to look after customers who have extra communication, access or safety needs. It helps them tailor their services to support households who need extra help with everyday energy matters like bills, and in the unlikely event of a power cut, gas or water supply interruption. To sign up, please visit: The PSR – The Priority Services Register (PSR)