‘Cost of Living’ and Energy Bills Support Scheme
As the ‘Cost of Living Crisis’ starts to bite, the Bristol City Council (BCC), working with the voluntary and community sector (including BOPF), are starting to respond. The BCC have created a ‘Cost of Living’ support webpage, where you can find out about what support is available to help you through. The page will be updated regularly to add in new developments. Please take a look.
Cost of living support (bristol.gov.uk)
Energy Bills Support Scheme
Energy Bills Support Scheme. Households will start receiving £400 off their energy bills from October. Most households will see the non-repayable discount automatically applied to energy bills in instalments over six months. A £66 discount will be applied to energy bills in October and November, rising to £67 each month from December through to March 2023. Some energy companies will take the full direct debit amount and refund you the £66 after the direct debit is paid. If you’re on a traditional prepayment meter, you’ll receive a monthly voucher which you can redeem at a local top up point identified by your supplier. Beware of scams. You do not need to apply for the scheme, and you’ll never be asked for your bank details.
Find out more: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/energy-bills-support-scheme-explainer?
BOPF Information Hub – ‘Cost of Living’ Support
Christina Stokes
Chair, Bristol Older peoples Forum