West Suffolk Council offers support to households at risk of significant fuel hardship

26 Mar 2026

Households that are experiencing or at risk of significant fuel hardship are being targeted for support by a West Suffolk Council service.

The council’s Financial Inclusion Service will be contacting over 2,000 low-income households that it has identified as likely to be experiencing or at risk of significant fuel hardship. It will be working to maximise their income and direct them to all means of suitable help.

The conflict with Iran has seen oil prices surge – the Government has announced that over £50 million of support to help for low-income households with the extra cost. In Suffolk that support is to be distributed by Suffolk County Council through its Crisis and Resilience Fund which starts next Wednesday 1 April. Residents who require immediate support may be eligible for help with heating costs through the existing Local Welfare Assistance Scheme (LWAS) with priority being given to fuel payments, (second applications will be accepted for Heating Oil Payments): Suffolk County Council - Suffolk Local Welfare Assistance Scheme

West Suffolk Council’s Financial Inclusion Service can help households check if they are getting all the support that they can.

Cllr Donna Higgins, Cabinet Member for Families and Communities at West Suffolk Council said: “I know many people are anxious and worried about the impact of these price rises. That’s why we are targeting support to low-income households who we believe may be experiencing or at risk of significant fuel hardship, to see if we can boost their income and get the help they need.”

But the council recognises that other households may also need help.

Residents are advised to use a benefits calculator at home such Policy in Practice - Better Off Calculator to see if there are any benefits that they are entitled to. It is completely free to use and confidential. Some unclaimed benefits may also be back dated.

West Suffolk Council is also offering a free Energy Advice Survey to homeowners, private tenants and landlords who are looking to improve their homes energy efficiency and help reduce fuel bills. They can also advise on eligibility for grants to support these works. Contact environment@westsuffolk.gov.uk to book in a visit.

Many of our partner organisations can also help. These include:

• Citizens Advice West Suffolk - can provide money advice support
• Realise Futures - offers help with household budgeting
• Reach Community Projects - can help with managing debt.

More information on cost-of-living support can be found on West Suffolk Council’s website at www.westsuffolk.gov.uk/cost-of-living These webpages also detail more on our Financial Inclusion Service.  If resident need additional help they can contact our  Financial Inclusion Service on 01284 757660 or at Financial Inclusion Team Enquiry Form.

 

 

 

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