Households across North Wales struggling to heat their homes are set to receive extra help, as rising global fuel prices continue to push up the cost of energy.
The support comes as ongoing tensions in the Middle East impact fuel supplies worldwide, adding further pressure to families already dealing with the cost of living.
Under the new scheme, people on low incomes who use heating oil or LPG and are part of the Council Tax Reduction Scheme will be eligible for a one-off £200 payment. The funding, worth £3.8 million across Wales, will be distributed by local councils, who will contact eligible households directly and invite them to apply. Payments will be made straight into bank accounts, and people will have six months to claim.
For those in North Wales who may not qualify but are still struggling, extra help is also available through the Discretionary Assistance Fund. The maximum payment for heating oil has now been increased to £750, and people can apply twice within a year, offering further support as energy prices remain high.
There are also longer-term plans to help people stay warm and well. From September, a new “Warmth on Prescription” pilot will begin in south-east Wales, supporting people with health conditions such as asthma or heart disease that can be made worse by cold homes. The scheme will provide direct help with energy costs and could shape future support across Wales if successful.
Meanwhile, existing programmes continue to support households across North Wales. Schemes like Warm Homes Nest and energy efficiency upgrades are helping people reduce bills by improving insulation and heating systems, making homes warmer and cheaper to run.
Since 2022, hundreds of thousands of people across Wales have also received emergency fuel support, including top-ups and deliveries, through national schemes.
The Welsh Government says the latest support is aimed at helping those most in need cope with rising costs, while also encouraging anyone struggling to seek advice. Free, confidential support is available through Advicelink Cymru, while Nest Warm Homes scheme can offer guidance and check eligibility for free home energy improvements.
With energy bills still a major concern for many households, especially in rural parts of North Wales where off-grid heating is more common, the message is clear—help is available, and those who need it are encouraged to come forward.
Advicelink Cymru can give clear, confidential advice to those dealing with money worries or unsure what support they are eligible for: 0800 702 2020.
The Nest Warm Homes scheme offers free energy efficiency advice and improvements to low-income Welsh households: 0808 808 2244.