As the start of October looms, it means the price of energy bills for people in Bradford will increase by 10% from next month.

It comes as the energy price cap for households using gas and electricity will rise from October 1, Ofgem confirmed.

But if you are worried about how you will be able to afford your new energy bills, there is plenty of financial help and advice from Cost of Living Bradford, a partnership campaign between Community Action Bradford & District, City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council, and Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership (Act as One).

Let’s take a look at what schemes can help you, if you are struggling to pay your energy bills this autumn and winter.

How to get help with energy bill costs this winter in Bradford

First of all, Cost of Living Bradford says that most energy companies now have a fund to help anyone going through hardship and suggests giving your supplier a call to see what they can do.

It adds: “Suppliers can also provide fuel vouchers to customers on a prepayment meter if they can’t afford to top up.

“Did you know that British Gas provide grants for customers and non-customers to help with energy bills so even if you get your gas and electric from another supplier, you can still apply for help!”

When it comes to ways you can minimize your heating usage in the home, Cost of Living Bradford has shared MoneySavers top tips on how you can keep warm without help from the boiler:

  • Layer clothing to keep in the heat
  • Eat regularly and try to have at least one hot meal a day
  • Keep your feet warm with rugs and slippers
  • Put your feet up, literally. The floor can be the coldest part of the house
  • Use a sleeping bag or blanket to stay warm
  • Go for a walk or exercise, get the blood flowing
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Additionally, Warm Homes Healthy People (WHHP) which is a Bradford based organisation, can offer free help and advice to Bradford district residents on staying warm and saving money on energy bills, nutrition and health, and debt issues.

Cost of Living Bradford explains: “They can offer practical help such as repairs to heating, food parcels, Winter warmth packs and emergency heating.

“As well as offering help and advice on switching tariffs, grants and discounts and debt and benefit advice, they offer energy saving device installations.

“Energy saving devices include low-energy light bulbs, draught proofing, reflective radiator panels and pipe lagging.”

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For those concerned about being able to afford their water bill, Yorkshire Water has various schemes in place which could help.

Cost of Living Bradford is asking Bradford district residents to speak to them before they get into debt.

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Just some of the schemes they have an offer are:

  • Water Sure - Bill cap scheme for water meter customers
  • Resolve - Debt support scheme
  • Water Support – Bill cap scheme
  • Water Direct - Debt support scheme
  • Community Trust - Debt support scheme

You can find more information about energy bill help if you are a Bradford district resident on the Cost of Living Bradford website.