Cost of living support
Support with energy and bills
With the cost of living having an impact on everyone's energy bills, it's important to understand what help is available and what cost of living payments you're eligible for. Age UK provide a helpful summary about what payment are currently available to help with energy bills.
Reduce your bills
With the cost of living continually on the rise, finding ways to save money on bills is becoming increasingly important.
The Money Saving Expert website has several guides and tips on how to get the best deals on your household bills which could save you hundreds of pounds annually. They provide information on finding affordable broadband, TV, and mobile plans and offer advice on switching providers and choosing the best deals.
Cheap broadband
Amid rising living costs, some internet service providers are offering low-cost broadband and phone packages called social tariffs. You might be eligible for these if you are claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit and some other benefits. For more information about cheap broadband click here to visit the Ofcom website.
Water
Southern Water and South East Water provide payment schemes and discounts for customers on low income.
You might also want to consider getting a water meter. To check if a water meter is right for you, please click here to read Money saving Expert's guide on cutting water bills
Council tax
If you are low on income or claim benefits, you might be able to get a council tax reduction. Each council runs its own scheme and your bill could be reduced by up to 100%. To find out more, please click here to read information on the government website.
You might be also able to get a council tax discount for your property, for example if you live alone. You can find more information on GOV.UK or by contacting your local council.
Applying for an older person’s bus pass
You might be able to get a bus pass for free travel. The age you can get one depends on where you live and when you were born. Check if you can get an older person’s bus pass by visiting the government website.
Switch off standby
You can save around £70 a year just by remembering to turn your appliances off standby mode. Almost all electrical appliances can be turned off at the plug without upsetting their programming.
Turning off your lights when you’re using them and replacing the lights in your home with LED bulbs can also help you save money on your energy bill. Modern LED bulbs use 90 per cent less electricity than traditional incandescent lights and last ten times longer.
Wash clothes at a lower temperature
Modern washing machines can clean clothes effectively at lower temperatures. Changing from 40°C to 30°C means you could get three cycles instead of two using the same amount of energy, depending on your washing machine.