Thousands of families across Teesside are set to benefit from extra government support to help with the cost of energy bills this winter, as part of the national expansion of the Warm Home Discount (WHD) scheme.
More than 250,000 households across England and Wales will receive letters confirming a £150 discount on their energy bills, with the vast majority of eligible families receiving the rebate automatically. The expansion means 6 million households will now receive help – an increase of 2.7 million compared with last year.
The Warm Home Discount provides targeted support for households on means-tested benefits, including Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and Housing Benefit, ensuring those most in need receive extra help during the colder months.
Government data shows that the Teesside region has the highest proportion of households benefitting from the scheme, reflecting the government’s focus on directing help where it is most needed.
(Map: Households receiving the Warm Home Discount rebate, 2023/24 – source: Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
Luke Myer MP welcomed the expansion to make energy more affordable and protect families this winter, while also calling for further progress to cut bills for good.
“I’m pleased that letters will be dropping on doormats across Teesside this week containing welcome news for thousands of families.
“I’m determined that this government tackle energy affordability for families as a priority. In the short-term, that’s about stepping up to provide support like this. In the long-term, it’s about delivering clean, homegrown power that will create jobs on Teesside and cut bills for good.”
Further Protection for Consumers
For those not eligible for the discount, the government is also strengthening consumer rights and protections in the energy market. Under reforms announced last week, families and small businesses will see faster access to redress and compensation through the Energy Ombudsman, while new powers will allow Ofgem to regulate energy brokers and end exploitative sales practices.
Suppliers will now face tougher penalties if they fail to implement compensation rulings promptly, and the waiting period before consumers can escalate complaints to the Ombudsman will be halved from eight to four weeks.
These reforms aim to make the energy market fairer and more transparent, ensuring that when problems arise, customers can get help quickly and easily.
Local Support Available
Alongside national support, local services across Teesside continue to offer practical help for households struggling with energy costs.
- Cleveland Fire Brigade’s Stay Safe and Warm scheme provides emergency heaters, blankets, and advice on fuel bills, with a 24-hour response line at 01429874063.
- The South Tees Affordable Warmth Partnership, led by Middlesbrough Environment City, offers free energy advice, benefits checks, and help applying for grants or insulation. They are available at 08003047084.
- In Redcar and Cleveland, the council’s Warm & Well service (01642 771289) offers access to insulation, boiler repairs, and emergency warmth support, while in Middlesbrough the Staying Put Agency (0800 5875184) provides similar help for residents.
- Age UK’s Warm Homes Project and the HEAT service from the Wise Group also offer guidance, support and advice. The HEAT service mentors may also be able to help you contact your energy supplier if you’re behind on payments.
- Luke’s caseworkers are always available to help – just get in touch here.
For more information on the Warm Home Discount, visit gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme, or contact the local support services listed above for additional help.