Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Funding (EBSS Alternative Funding)
The government has announced details for people without a direct relationship to a domestic energy supplier, including many care home residents and those living in park homes. These groups will receive a £400 discount on their fuel bills.
Find out more and make an application (GOV.UK)
If you cannot apply online or need help with your application, contact the helpline team:
Email: alternativefunding@ebss.beis.gov.uk
Telephone: 0808 175 3287
Payment for households that use alternative fuels
The government has announced details of a single payment of £200 for households that use alternative fuels like heating oil.
We are awaiting further information on both of these schemes and will update this page as soon as we know more.
Paying your council tax
If you are on a low income, you may be eligible for a council tax reduction.
See Apply for council tax reduction
You should contact us if you are having difficulties paying your council tax. We will do what we can to help.
Telephone: 01732 844522
Email: revenues@tmbc.gov.uk
Free advice is also available from Citizens Advice and National Debtline.
Paying your energy bills
The government has announced a range of support to help people pay their bills.
See Help with your energy bills (GOV.UK)
If you're still struggling to pay your energy bills, you should first contact your supplier. If you need extra support, Ofgem and British Gas Energy Trust can help.
- Getting help if you can't afford your energy bills (Ofgem)
- Independent fuel debt advice (British Gas Energy Trust)
Money Helper can help you prioritise your bills and payments.
You may also be entitled to other financial help. Home essentials in a crisis (Kent County Council) can help with short term emergencies or you could search for a grant at Charis for individuals and Turn2Us.
You could also try to reduce your bills by making improvements to your home energy efficiency.
See Sustainable warmth grant scheme
The Ofgem website gives up to date advice about how to compare and switch energy tariff or supplier when shopping around for a new energy deal and lists Ofgem-accredited price comparison websites.
Paying your water bill
Your water provider can offer support if you are struggling to pay your water bills.
See Southeast Water
Paying your broadband and phone
Social tariffs can provide a safety net for people struggling to afford their broadband or phone services. You could qualify if you receive certain benefits.
See Digital Kent