Advice on fuel bills and housing ahead of forecast cold snap in Southport
With a cold snap forecast, Sefton Council is reminding people in the Borough living on low incomes can find support through its Affordable Warmth Team.
People can contact the team at [email protected] or by calling 0151 934 2222, for assistance and advice on a range of topics.
Landlords
Also, the Council is reminding the Borough’s landlords that they should advise tenants facing difficulties with the cost of heating their homes to visit the Simple Energy Advice website at www.simpleenergyadvice.org.uk or call their helpline on 0800 444 202.
Ofgem also provides advice on getting help if you can’t afford your energy bills through its website at https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/getting-help-if-you-cant-afford-your-energy-bills.
Support
Depending on their circumstances, tenants they may also be eligible for support through:
Stark choice
Last month, Cllr Trish Hardy said that rocketing energy bills could result in some of the Borough’s families making the stark choice between eating and heating their homes this winter.
Cllr Hardy said: “Energy price rises, combined with the Government’s cutting of £20 per week from Universal Credit in October, has resulted in families across Sefton facing a tough winter ahead.
“I want to reassure our communities that our dedicated Affordable Warmth Team are here to help.”
Housing difficulties
People facing housing difficulties that could put their home at risk, who have received an eviction notice or have rent arrears should get in touch with our Homeless Prevention Service at [email protected] or by calling 0151 934 3541.
The Homeless Prevention team works with tenants to help them maintain their tenancy or with moving on to more affordable and suitable accommodation, and they can also assist landlords that are facing issues such as rent arrears and late or inconsistent rent payments.
Landlords who have concerns about vulnerable tenants can also contact the team for support in resolving the situation.