RESIDENTS across Worcestershire who are struggling with rising energy costs are being encouraged to seek support through the county’s Crisis and Resilience Fund, which offers practical assistance to help households stay warm, safe and financially resilient.
The fund is already providing support for low-income households who rely on heating oil or Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) through the Oil and LPG Energy Support Scheme.
The scheme provides vital assistance to residents who are at immediate risk of running out of fuel, helping ensure they can continue to heat their homes and access hot water during periods of financial hardship.
In addition to emergency fuel support, the fund now offers assistance through a Physical Interventions Scheme, which can help eligible residents replace or repair boilers.
By supporting the installation of new heating systems where needed, the scheme provides a longer-term solution that can improve home comfort, increase energy efficiency and reduce the risk of future heating emergencies.
New Energy Resilience Officers will also be out in communities later this year to support residents.
Coun Josh Robinson, cabinet member for environment and communities at Worcestershire County Council, said: “We know that many residents continue to face significant pressure from the cost of living and rising energy bills.
“Through the Crisis and Resilience Fund, we are able to provide practical support that helps people stay warm, manage costs and improve their homes for the future.
“Whether it’s assistance with heating oil, replacing a broken boiler, or accessing expert energy advice, we want residents to know that help is available.”
The council is also continuing to strengthen its support for residents by recruiting dedicated Energy Efficiency Officers in the coming months.
These specialist officers will work directly with households to identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption, improve the energy efficiency of their homes and access available grants and support schemes.
Their role will help ensure residents receive tailored advice that can lower energy bills and create warmer, healthier homes.
The introduction of Energy Resilience Officers forms part of Worcestershire County Council’s wider commitment to tackling fuel poverty, supporting vulnerable residents and helping communities become more resilient in the face of ongoing cost-of-living pressures.
Visit www.worcestershire.gov.uk/council-services/environment/sustainability/tackling-fuel-poverty/crisis-and-resilience-fund for more information.
