Residents in Bath and North East Somerset who rely on heating oil and are struggling financially are being offered help through a council support scheme.
Bath & North East Somerset Council says rising oil prices are creating extra pressure for some households across the district, particularly those on low incomes or dealing with unexpected financial difficulties.
In response, the local authority is making support available through its Crisis and Resilience Fund for people who need to order heating oil but cannot afford to do so, as well as for those who have recently bought oil and are now unable to cover the cost.
The council said residents may qualify if they heat their home using oil, are on a low income or experiencing hardship, and either need to buy oil now or have recently purchased it and are struggling to pay.
Councillor Mark Elliott, cabinet member for resources, said: “We know that rising heating oil costs are causing real concern for some households, especially for people on low incomes or facing unexpected financial pressures.
“This support is there to help residents stay warm and get through a difficult period, and I would encourage anyone who is struggling to come forward and apply.”
The help is being delivered as a Crisis Payment through the Crisis and Resilience Fund, which is a UK Government grant scheme administered locally by Bath & North East Somerset Council for residents facing financial hardship.
Applications can be made through the Welfare Support section of the council’s website or by calling the Welfare Support Team on 01225 477277.
