It's been reported this week that only just over half of people on prepayment meters have claimed their £400 energy support vouchers.

The Post Office revealed only 60% of people have redeemed the vouchers sent so far, and PayPoint announced only 53% have. The vouchers are being sent through the post each month and are valid for 90 days. October and November's are for £66 and then December to March will be £67.

If you're on a pre-payment meter and haven't received a voucher yet, it's really important you contact your supplier to check your details are up to date or query where the voucher is.

It's all part of the government cost-of-living package to try and ease things in these financially difficult times. We know it may feel hard and even embarrassing at times asking for financial help, but please never feel like there isn't support out there. 

  • The Household Support Fund is still in place until March 2023, all information for Derbyshire residents can be found here and West Northamptonshire here.
  • There are lists of Derbyshire food banks and Northamptonshire too, and if you're on Facebook it's worth looking on local spotted pages for more food banks.
  • Turn2us are a charity who have lots of information on the cost-of-living crisis and ways to get support. 
  • We have our very own Tenancy Support team at Futures who're here to help you.

As a reminder...

  • Over eight million households are set to receive the second part of the £650 Cost of Living Payment this month, as the £324 payments will start being made after 8 November.
  • Just like the first payment, this will be paid automatically into your bank account and for most eligible people will be no later than 23 November.
  • Those in receipt of tax credits will be paid between 23 and 30 November.
  • It's not too late to claim Pension Credit and qualify for the £324, but you should claim by 18 December.
  • If you're unsure if you're eligible, use the Government's benefit checker to find out what you might be entitled to.

 

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  • The Winter Fuel Payment is paid automatically into your bank account if you're eligible, and will start to be sent out throughout November and December.
  • The amount you get depends on your circumstances, but ranges between £250 and £600.
  • This year the amount includes a Pensioner Cost of Living payment.
  • You'll receive a letter through the post advising you of the exact amount you'll receive.
  • If you've not received the payment by 13 January 2023 then you should contact the Winter Fuel Payment centre on 0800 731 0160.