MP warns people ‘not to miss out’ as winter fuel scheme finally launched

People who use oil, LPG and other alternative fuels to heat their home are eligible for £200 of support from the Alternative Fuel Payment scheme.

Most of these payments are being automatically credited to customer’s electricity bills, but people without a direct electricity supply must apply for the money. The online portal to do so has only opened this week, after months of delays and issues.

Richard has backed calls for the Government to give families the option of a bank transfer instead of electricity credit so that they are able to use the money to pay for the alternative fuel the scheme is designed for.

Liberal Democrats wanted the Government to implement a price cap on heating oil and LPG which would have provided support to families far faster than the delayed Alternative Fuel Payment scheme.

It would have benefited the over 40,000 people who live in off-grid homes across Devon – with around 12,000 of these being within Richard Foord’s Tiverton & Honiton constituency.

Commenting Richard Foord MP said:

“Heating oil and gas are extremely expensive and many families across Devon have had to suffer through a long, cold winter without any real support from the Government.

“It’s disappointing that this Conservative Government has waited until March to get its act together and organise winter support payments, but now that the online portal is open it’s important nobody misses out on the money they are eligible for.

“I know many people have been frustrated by the eligibility rules and the payments being given as credits on electricity bills and Liberal Democrats have raised these concerns with Ministers.

“The rules regarding providing receipts that were blocking some applications have now been changed so hopefully the Government will also listen to other Liberal Democrat suggestions to ensure everyone in need is able to access the support.

“Please don’t miss out. If you aren’t sure if you’re eligible, then do check online or call the dedicated helpline at 0808 175 3943.”