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Most households across the country received a £400 discount on their energy bills as six instalments between October 2022 and March 2023 through the government’s Energy Bills Support Scheme. However, households that do not have an electricity meter or a contract with an electricity supplier will not have received any financial support to date.
The Government’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) announced this week that eligible households across England, Scotland and Wales will benefit from £400 energy bill help under the ‘alternative funding’ route of the government’s Energy Bills Support Scheme.
An online application portal is now open, and any eligible North Somerset resident will receive the one-off, non-repayable lump sum £400 payment via North Somerset Council.
Cllr Mike Bell, Deputy Leader of North Somerset Council said: “I’m pleased that households without a direct relationship to an electricity supplier can now apply for their £400 payment. It is frustrating that this has taken the Government so long to put in place, delaying important help with energy costs for an often overlooked group of residents. As the cost of living crisis continues to affect us all, this support will be very welcome to many across our region.”
The Council is urging all eligible households to apply as soon as possible for support, whilst also warning households to stay alert to potential scams and report them to relevant authorities where they are suspected.
The government will never provide any links to the application portal or directly ask individuals to apply for the £400 support. To report suspicious links, contact https://www.gov.uk/report-suspicious-emails-websites-phishing
Once North Somerset customers have applied online, eligible customers’ details will be shared with North Somerset Council to deliver the support. The payment will be provided directly into people’s bank accounts. To check eligibility and to apply, visit www.gov.uk/apply-energy-bill-support-if-not-automatic.
For those without online access, a dedicated customer helpline is available - 0808 175 3287, Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm.
For a round-up of cost of living advice and guidance, visit North Somerset Council’s website www.n-somerset.gov.uk/col. It includes help with bills, childcare costs, housing support, and energy and heating advice.
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