Following the announcement last week that the price cap increase on energy charges will impact millions of households, Warwick and Stratford-on-Avon District Councils are continuing to work with local charity Act On Energy to promote the grants, advice and support available to residents in South Warwickshire.

Act On Energy can offer advice on local funds such as the Household Support Fund, provide energy saving tips to reduce household energy usage and assist those in fuel debt to work directly with their supplier.

The charity can also assist the most vulnerable households with free low-cost energy installations such as energy efficient light bulbs and draught proofing measures.

Cllr Jo Barker, Homes, Health and Wellbeing Portfolio at Stratford District Council said: “Living with fuel poverty has far reaching impacts, particularly on health and wellbeing. Money worries can affect mental health and cold homes can affect our physical health.

“If paying fuel bills is a struggle, it’s much better to get help sooner rather than later. Act On Energy can help households avoid getting to that stage and I would encourage anyone affected by the stark choices of heating or eating, to seek help and support.”

Councillor Alan Rhead, Cabinet member for Climate Change at Warwick District Council, added: “I would encourage any resident struggling to reach out and get the support they need.

“Though there are simple steps we can all take to reduce the amount of energy that our household uses, from draught proofing doors to switching off radiators in rooms that we’re not using, no-one should suffer from cold homes and so I would urge anyone that needs advice to get in touch with this fantastic local charity.”

According to the Energy Saving Trust, simple changes to the way we use energy in our homes could help save over £350 per year. Top tips include setting the thermostat at an ideal temperature between 18 and 21 degrees, having shorter showers and fewer baths, turning off appliances when not in use instead of leaving them on standby.

Rachel Jones, Chief Executive of Act On Energy, said: “We have seen an increase in demand for our services over the last 18 months. The impact of the pandemic and energy price rises means that now more than ever residents need advice and guidance on the price cap and what it may mean to them.

“We encourage residents who are worried to call us, we have an excellent advice team on hand to provide information on what the price cap is and how they can minimise its impact.”

Act On Energy can be contacted on 0800 988 2881 with a range of advice available on their website.

Both Councils will also be administering the £150 Council Tax rebate for properties rated band A-D, which will be issued to eligible households in April.