financial support

Managing household costs can be challenging, especially during the colder months. If you’re worried about heating bills or need help with your finances, there are several types of support available. Below you’ll find information on government schemes, practical advice, and services that can help you stay warm and manage your money safely.

Help with Heating Costs

• Cold Weather Payment
  If you receive certain benefits and the temperature stays at 0°C or below for seven consecutive days, you may get this payment automatically—no need to apply.
• Warm Home Discount
  You could receive £150 off your energy bill if you get Pension Credit or other qualifying benefits. This is applied automatically, but check your energy supplier has your correct details.
• Winter Fuel Payment
  If you were born before 22 September 1959, you could get between £100 and £300 to help with heating costs. Most people receive this automatically in November or December.
  If you don’t, you can apply:
  • Online: gov.uk
  • Phone: 0800 731 0160
  • Post: Winter Fuel Payment Centre, Mail Handling Site A, Wolverhampton, WV98 1LR

Deadline for applications: 31 March 2026

Need More Support?

• Visit gov.uk for advice or speak to your energy supplier or Citizens Advice to check you’re on the right tariff.
• Contact believe housing’s Money Matters Team for free, confidential money advice:
  • Phone: 0300 1311 999
  • Email: hello@believehousing.co.uk
  • Website: www.believehousing.co.uk

The team can help with:

• Accessing benefits and grants
• Reducing household bills
• Exploring safer alternatives to borrowing

Find energy-saving tips at:
www.believehousing.co.uk/in-your-home/payments/energy-saving-tips

Safer Borrowing Options

• NEFirst Credit Union
  A non-profit co-operative offering savings and affordable loans, plus schemes for buying furniture and white goods through manageable weekly payments.
  Visit: www.nefirstcu.co.uk

Beware of illegal money lenders (loan sharks)

Loan sharks are illegal lenders who charge extremely high interest and operate without a licence. They often target people in financial difficulty, appearing friendly at first but becoming threatening or violent if payments are missed. Borrowing from a loan shark can cause serious financial and emotional harm.

For advice and reporting:

• Protect yourself: www.durham.gov.uk/loansharks
• Report an illegal lender:
  • Phone: Stop Loan Sharks on 0300 555 2222 (24/7 confidential service)
  • Online: www.stoploansharks.co.uk
• If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.