Energy prices can change quickly, and we know some customers are worried about the cost of heating their home - especially if you use oil, gas or live in a home with communal heating.

If you’re struggling to pay for heating or other essentials, help is available.

The Crisis and Resilience Fund

The government has provided extra funding to help people who are struggling with the cost of living. This is called the Crisis and Resilience Fund, and it’s run by local councils.

You may be able to get help with:

  • heating and energy costs
  • other essential living expenses
  • You do not need to be on benefits to apply.

How to apply

Applications are made directly to your local council.

Get help with the cost of living from your local council.

If you use oil heating

If your home is heated by oil, you may be affected more quickly when prices rise, as oil prices are not capped.

If you’re worried about paying for oil or topping up your tank:

  • apply to your local council for help through the Crisis and Resilience Fund
  • consider contacting us if paying for heating is putting your tenancy at risk

Priority Services Register

Most customers with gas heating are protected by the energy price cap, but costs can still rise over time.

Customers with communal or heat network heating may see changes to charges depending on how energy is supplied in their building.

If you’re struggling to keep up with payments or are worried about future costs, support is available.

Get extra support from your utility providers

Many water, gas and electricity providers offer free extra support for customers who may need a little additional help through their Priority Services Register.

You may be eligible if you:

  • have reached your state pension age
  • have a disability or long-term medical condition
  • rely on medical equipment that uses electricity or water
  • are pregnant or live with children under five years old
  • are blind, partially sighted, deaf, or hard of hearing
  • have a mental health condition
  • need temporary help, such as recovering from an injury or a hospital stay
  • have extra communication needs, such as not speaking or reading English well

Being on the register means your supplier can provide extra support during planned work, power cuts or supply interruptions. This could include advance notice of outages, priority updates during emergencies, alternative water supplies, or information in accessible formats.

If you think you might be eligible, contact your gas, electricity and water providers to find out what support is available. Registration is free, quick to arrange and could make a real difference when you need it most.

We’re here to help

If rising energy costs are affecting your ability to pay your rent or bills, please get in touch with us. Our teams can:

  • talk through the support available
  • help you apply for local council assistance
  • look at what help may be available to you

The fastest way to contact us is through your online account.

Remember, if we don't know, we can't help. Get in touch with us, and we'll help you through this.