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Residents in South Tyneside are being encouraged to check whether they might be entitled to funding to help make their homes more energy efficient.

With the Energy Bill relief scheme due to end at the end of March, most householders will see their energy bills rise again.

But the Council is advising that those living in fuel poverty may be entitled to government grants to fund the costs of heating and insulation work.

A household is classed as being in fuel poverty if the residents are on a low income and are unable to heat their home for a reasonable cost.      

To qualify for help, people must be living in an inefficient home and be in receipt of certain benefits, or on a low household income below £31,000 per year or have certain health conditions which are made worse by the cold. Homes will need to be surveyed and assessed before any funding can be secured.

More than 10,000 households in the Borough are living in fuel poverty, according to the latest estimate from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

Councillor Ruth Berkley, Lead Member for the Voluntary Sector, Partnerships and Equalities, said: "All our residents deserve to live in homes that are warm. We want to see all our residents living happy and healthy lives and are committed to targeting support to make things fairer.

"While this funding is only open to those who qualify, I would encourage anyone living in fuel poverty to get in touch with the Council to see if they may be eligible."

To find out more about the funding available and the eligibility criteria, visit /article/2434/Overview

Anyone who feels they may be entitled to support is asked to contact the Council on 0191 4277000 or email Environmentalhealth.mailbox@southtyneside.gov.uk

A dedicated web page has been created to offer cost of living support. Visit