Energy / Help available for those struggling with high energy costs
SHETLAND Islands Council is encouraging households who might be struggling with energy costs to consider applying for assistance from the Home Heating Support Fund.
The Home Heating Support Fund provides financial relief to Scottish households experiencing significant financial hardship, regardless of the fuel or payment method used.
Eligibility for funding depends on certain criteria being met and evidenced, including:
- Proof of income
- Rural/Remote Status – Proof of address e.g., fuel bill, council tax letter, Bank Statement
- Age (those over 75) – Any official document showing a date of birth (e.g. passport, driving license) preferably including address details.
- Disability or illness – Relevant medical letter, Disability Living Allowance Letter (DLA), Employment and Support Allowance Letter (ESA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Letter.
- Ill-health – Relevant medical letter, Disability Living Allowance Letter (DLA), Employment and Support Allowance Letter (ESA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Letter
- Higher than average energy bills – Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), or a relevant energy bill.
- Provision of prior energy and/or financial advice – Client Reference Number, Case Notes.
- Level of fuel debt – Up-to-date utility bill, official email from energy supplier, Debt collector letter.
The council’s energy efficiency team can assist households by offering energy advice and making a referral to HHSF if necessary.
The fund is open until 31 March 2022. More information is available here.
Anyone who thinks they may be eligible can contact the council’s energy efficiency team on energyefficiency@shetland.gov.uk or 01595 744179.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
