Somerset households struggling to pay their bills and keep warm during the colder months could be eligible for help with everyday essentials, such as food, water and energy costs.

Somerset Council’s ‘Help Through Winter’ campaign is supporting charities and local organisations, such as the Somerset Community Foundation, to assist vulnerable residents with their outgoings and needs during the colder months.

The campaign, which runs until March 2025, uses monies from the Government’s Household Support Fund and includes:

• Vouchers towards gas and electricity, or household food bills
• ‘Move-in’ grants for furniture, mattresses, carpets, electrical goods, and more
• Funding for 50 existing community hubs to support food banks, family activities and keeping designated Warm Spaces open

Some elements are means-tested (you need to earn below a certain amount to be able to claim them) so please check the website to find out which support you are eligible for.

Councillor Sarah Wakefield, Lead Member for Adults Services, Housing and Homelessness at Somerset Council, said:

We know many residents are feeling the pressure of the cost-of-living crisis and that the winter weather can put extra costs on struggling households.

Our priority is to ensure we use the funding from central Government to help as many people as possible. That’s why we’re distributing so much of it directly to local organisations and charities. They will ensure the funds reach our communities in the most efficient way.

Cllr Wakefield added:

There are many offers of help available and we encourage residents to explore all options, and take up the support that’s there.

In addition to the ‘Help Through Winter’ measures, residents are reminded all Somerset libraries have been designated ‘Warm Welcome Spaces’ which means anyone in the community is welcome to come and spend time in the library. You do not need to be a member.

Residents may also wish to enquire about Pension Credit, which provides extra money to help with living costs for people over state pension age and on a low income. Apply online at gov.uk/pension-credit or call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.

And for information and support with food, parenting and isolation, visit Connect Somerset.

All information about support available through ‘Help Through Winter’ can be found via the Council’s Household Support Fund page.

Residents are encouraged to access the ‘Help Through Winter’ offer online. If this is not possible, the Council’s Customer Services team can help signpost the right support via 0300 123 2224. When asked, please respond with “Household Support Fund”. Somerset Council phonelines are available Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm.