There are housing and energy grants available for the elderly, disabled and those with lower incomes
The problem is, each year, many are being reported as unclaimed.
If you’ve not yet considered claiming money / vouchers to contribute towards your home improvement purchase(s) then you could be missing out on huge discounts. However, (and this one’s an insider’s tip) its still worth shopping around after you’ve been approved the grant as a lot of the time, the issued vouchers are for specific retailers that are usually more expensive than others. This is usually done to encourage customers to see what’s out there. Also, to try products they wouldn’t usually be interested in, therefore, it’s not necessarily a bad thing.
If you’re looking to receive grants then energy grants would be the best place to start. There is substantial Government funding set aside to improve the environment. In addition to helping the environment, improving your home’s energy system can increase the value of your home, make your home warmer and lower the cost of your energy bills. We recommend you go to the Government’s Energy Saving Trust (EST) to get more advice and submit an enquiry.
What’s more, this year the Government are offering a tax-free Winter Fuel repayment of £100-£300. In order to be able to qualify you’ll have to apply through the gov.uk website by 31st March 2017. You’ll also have to be born on or before 5th May 1953. You must be on the state pension or get another social security benefit.
Lastly, and most importantly, if any of the above still don’t cut it and you require more financial aid, then some utility companies are helping customers cover large arrears on gas, electricity and water bills. For more information, visit the Energy Saving Trust site.