Why Energy Costs Matter So Much for Carers
Energy bills continue to be a major pressure point for many families. Recent figures show that 23% of low income households have not been able to keep their home warm, and the average energy debt has risen to £1,600.
For carers, these pressures can feel even heavier. Caring responsibilities often limit the ability to take on additional work or increase income, meaning there is less flexibility to absorb rising energy costs. Many families are finding that heating, food, and other essentials are in direct competition.
24% of households in energy debt have needed to turn to food banks.
67% have experienced hunger in the last month because essential costs outstrip income.
Carers who spend long hours at home or who support someone with health conditions requiring constant warmth are especially affected.
Families Missing Out on Help
It isn’t only households on the lowest incomes who are struggling.
Around 40% of households unable to heat their homes do not receive means tested benefits.
12% may actually qualify for benefits but are not currently claiming them.
This leaves 28% who receive no benefit support and cannot afford essential heating.
A carer may be eligible for help even if they’ve never claimed before. Many carers underestimate what they might qualify for — or assume they won’t meet the requirements.
The Wider Picture
The current energy system is not meeting the essential needs of many households. Despite proposals such as increasing benefit support, adjusting charges for higher earners, and introducing an income based social tariff, the reality is that significant numbers of families — including working carers — are still struggling to keep warm.
Until wider reforms are agreed, ensuring carers have access to clear advice and support is vital.
Support Available for Carers
National Energy Action: NEA offers direct support and practical guidance to help households struggling with energy costs.
They can help with:
Understanding available grants and schemes
Improving energy efficiency
Navigating issues with energy suppliers
Get Help - National Energy Action (NEA)
Citizens Advice – Energy Supply Support
Citizens Advice provides detailed support on issues including:
Finding the most affordable tariff
Switching suppliers
Negotiating payment plans on energy debt
Help for those using prepayment meters
Support for families using alternative fuels such as logs, coal, or oil
Your energy supply - Citizens Advice
Crisis Resilience Fund
From 01/04/26 the Crisis Resilience Fund (CRF) will be replacing the Household Support Fund (HSF) in England
Further information on how to apply will become available and shared shortly.
Energy Schemes Available in 2026
Below is a summary of UK-wide schemes available in 2026 to help households, including carers, manage energy costs and access financial support.
1. Energy Price Cap Reductions (April–June 2026)
Ofgem has reduced the energy price cap by 7%, lowering typical dual-fuel bills to £1,641 a year. Households will automatically benefit from an average £150 saving due to changes in how environmental and social scheme costs are funded.
2. Warm Home Discount Scheme (Until 31 March 2026)
Provides a £150 rebate on electricity or gas bills for households receiving specific means tested benefits. Payments are automatic for eligible customers.
Warm Home Discount Scheme: Overview
3. Cold Weather Payments
Households may receive £25 for each week of freezing weather (temperature below zero for 7 days). Automatically paid between November and March.
Cold Weather Payment: Overview
4. Winter Fuel Payment / Winter Heating Payments
Pension age households can receive up to £305.10 to help with winter heating costs. Paid automatically during winter.
5. Household Support Fund (HSF) – Extended to 31 March 2026
Local councils provide support with energy bills, food or essential costs. Each council sets its own eligibility criteria.
6. ECO4 Scheme (Available Until March 2026)
Supports low income or vulnerable households with insulation and heating upgrades to improve energy efficiency.
Install a heat pump - Clean Energy Homepage
7. Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) — Expanded in Late 2025
Grant levels available: £7,500 for air source heat pumps, £7,500 for ground source heat pumps, £5,000 for biomass boilers (rural/off grid), £2,500 for air to air heat pumps, £2,500 for heat batteries.
Link as above
8. Lower Standing Charge Tariff Pilot (From April 2026)
Ofgem is piloting lower standing charge tariffs with EDF, E.ON, Octopus and British Gas for eligible low use customers to reduce fixed energy costs.
Contact energy supplier directly
What Carers Can Do Next
Here are practical steps carers can take straight away:
Check benefit entitlement
Since many families don’t claim despite being eligible, a benefits check can make a significant difference.
Look at energy debt options early
Both NEA and Citizens Advice can help negotiate payment plans or find financial assistance.
Explore support for health related heating needs
If the person you care for requires a warm environment due to medical conditions, you may qualify for additional help.
Ask for advocacy support
If dealing with suppliers feels overwhelming, both NEA And Citizens Advice can guide you or speak to suppliers on your behalf.
Carers should never be forced to choose between heating their home and meeting other essential needs. Energy insecurity is affecting a wide range of families, and carers are among those most impacted. If you know a carer who is struggling, then support is available.
Online Help and Advice
Visit our online support section where we have provided advice and guidance on a range of relevant topics to help you in your caring role.