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Get ready for autumn
We know life costs more for disabled people. We want to make sure that disabled people know what options are available and are getting access to all the support they are entitled to so that you can prepare now and be ready for the Autumn months.
Scope is here to help
We offer free energy and water advice to disabled people, helping them to manage their energy and water needs.
The service is open to:
- any disabled person or households in England or Wales where 1 or more disabled people live
Support with your energy and water needs
Our expert advisers can support you through a wide range of topics related to your energy and water needs, including:
- managing energy and water debt
- accessing benefits, grants, and trusts
- support registering with the Priority Services Register
- staying carbon monoxide safe
- understanding your gas and electricity bills
- understanding how to use your heating systems
- changing your meter
- energy and water efficiency
- contacting or complaining to your supplier
Telephone appointments
We offer telephone appointments with an energy adviser that will last up to 45 minutes. During this appointment you will get information and advice specific to your needs.
Your adviser will arrange any follow-up appointments, if you need them.
To get the most out of your appointment, please try to give your adviser as much detail as possible. You should have pen and paper for taking notes and the following information easily available:
- your most recent gas or electricity bill
- an up-to-date meter reading, if possible
- details of any missed payments or arrears
- details of any payment plans agreed with your energy supplier
Apply for energy support via telephone appointment
Email support
You will receive an email from one of our advisers containing advice that is tailored to your situation. You should receive this within 10 working days.
Apply for energy support via email advice
Other support available
Join the Priority Services Register
Get free, extra support from your energy and water companies such as:
- bills in accessible formats
- help with meter readings
- free gas safety checks
- access to the nominee and password scheme
You’ll also get extra support and priority help if there is a power cut, gas leak or interruption to your water supply.
Register once for your PSR request to go to your energy supplier (the company you pay your bills to) and your regional network companies including electricity, gas and water.
Join the Priority Services Register
Contact your energy supplier for help with bills
If you’re in debt with your bills, or unable to pay your next bill, contact your utilities supplier. They will help you work out an affordable plan to pay for your energy and repay the debt.
They can also tell you about discounts, grants and schemes you could apply for.
Discount on water bills and help with debt
Manage your finances with IE Hub
Scope has partnered with the IE hub, a free online budgeting tool that helps you to create and manage your household budget. It can help you take control of your finances and any debts you may have.
It is essential to check that you are receiving all the benefits and cost of living payments you are entitled to. The IE hub benefits checker can help you see if you are missing out on any payments you are entitled to.
Winter Fuel Payment
The Winter Fuel Payment is an automatic payment for most people born before 25 September 1957, designed to help cover heating costs during the winter. You can claim for winter 2024 to 2025 from 16 September 2024
Check if you need to claim Winter Fuel Payment (GOV.UK)
Cold Weather Payment
The Cold Weather Payment provides £25 for every 7-day period where the temperature is 0 degrees Celsius or below. This payment is automatic for eligible individuals and helps to cover additional heating costs during severe cold spells.
Check whether you are eligible for a Cold Weather Payment (GOV.UK)
Warm Home Discount
The Warm Home Discount offers £150 off electricity bills for eligible individuals. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) sends a letter to those who qualify. The discount can be applied directly to your meter or account or issued as vouchers.
Check if you're eligible for the Warm Home Discount (GOV.UK)
Time to Use Tariffs
If you're not eligible for the Warm Home Discount, ask your energy provider about time to use tariffs, which offer cheaper electricity rates during specific hours of the day. These tariffs can help reduce energy costs, especially during the colder months.
Help with the cost of appliances
Get help replacing broken cookers, fridges and washing machines through the Charis: Let’s Talk Energy Fund.
Agility Eco also offer energy help with energy efficient appliances (LEAP partnership).
Help with home adaptations
All local authorities have Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) schemes. These are for adaptations that cost over £1,000. See if you qualify.
Money saving tips
There may be some small changes that you can make in your home to reduce your bills. We know that not everyone can, but choose the ones that work for you.
Take a look at our energy saving tips and tips to save money on your water bills
Carbon monoxide: staying safe
Be aware of carbon monoxide poisoning and stay safe at home.
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas which is produced when fossil fuels burn inefficiently . The most common sources are faulty boilers, gas fires and cookers. Also using BBQs in an enclosed area and portable heaters
We know that due to rising living costs, many disabled people cannot afford to buy new appliances or pay to have their appliances serviced. Faulty appliances may not be identified and that is why CO alarms are so important.
Carbon monoxide is invisible to our senses due its lack of colour, taste and smell.
The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are not always obvious. They are often mistaken for flu-like illnesses. People with coronary heart disease, angina, asthma or anaemia are particularly at risk from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Our energy support service may be able to send you a free CO alarm:
About this campaign
Scope’s ‘Getting ready for winter’ campaign is working in partnership with:
