How To Get Help With Oil Heating Costs In UK

Heating Cost Support Explained

As energy costs continue to rise, many households across the UK are feeling the pressure — especially those who rely on heating oil or LPG.

Now, the government, led by Ed Miliband, has announced a new support package aimed at helping those most in need.

£53 Million Support Fund

A £53 million fund has been introduced to support vulnerable households struggling with rising heating costs.

This funding is designed to provide immediate financial help, particularly for people facing real hardship.

Instead of a central system, the money will be distributed through local councils.

The idea is simple — local authorities understand their communities best and can quickly identify who needs help most.

And importantly, the government says it wants to avoid delays seen during past crises, such as after the Ukraine conflict.

Apply through your local council

If you're struggling, you may be able to apply for support through your local authority.

Councils will assess applications and decide who qualifies.

However, some concerns have been raised.

There are fears that strict criteria could mean some people in need might miss out.

In response, Ed Miliband says councils will be encouraged to keep the process simple and fair, based on feedback from the public.

Not just for benefit claimants

The support is not limited to those on benefits.

If you're experiencing financial difficulty, you may still be eligible.

For those living in rural areas, rising heating oil costs — and even difficulties getting deliveries — are adding to the strain.

The advice from the government is clear:
If you're struggling, contact your local council and apply for help.

Is it enough?

There are also questions about whether the funding goes far enough.

The £53 million fund is expected to help around 1.7 million people — which works out at roughly £30 per person.

This scheme is not universal, but part of a wider £1 billion support package. Looking ahead, there are calls for stronger regulation of heating oil and LPG markets.

The government says the Competition and Markets Authority is already involved to help prevent unfair pricing.

The message is clear

Help is available — but you may need to take action to access it.

If you're worried about heating costs this winter,
reach out to your local council and see what support you could receive.

Check with your local council for support

The specific £53 million support package for heating oil and LPG users was announced by the UK Government on March 16, 2026.

Because this funding is being distributed locally, there isn't one single "apply here" button on a central government page. Instead, the application process depends on where you live in the UK.

1. Residents in England

In England, the money is being funneled through the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF), which officially launches on April 1, 2026 (replacing the Household Support Fund).

• The URL to find your local council's page: https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council

• What to do: Enter your postcode, go to your council’s website, and search for "Crisis and Resilience Fund" or "Household Support." Most councils will update their specific application forms in late March or early April.

2. Residents in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland

The funding has been allocated to the devolved governments, who are setting up their own schemes:

• Northern Ireland: Information will be hosted on nidirect.gov.uk. (Given that 2/3 of NI homes use heating oil, this is a major focus there).

• Scotland: Look for the "Scottish Emergency Oil Heating Scheme" or check the mygov.scot energy help page.

• Wales: Check the gov.wales "Get help with the cost of living" section.

Eligibility: The support is primarily targeted at low-income and vulnerable households (e.g., those on means-tested benefits or with high medical needs).

Timing: While the announcement is live now, the actual "doors open" for many of these local funds is April 1, 2026