Supporting Low-Income Households Reduce Utility Bills

Delivered and facilitated by Helen Dean from Connecting Communities in Berkshire (CCB). Helen leads CCB's Fuel and Water Poverty Project and is an experienced specialist in supporting households facing financial hardship.

This online training session will provide advice, practical guidance and up-to-date information for practitioners who work with low-income and vulnerable individuals, including families, older people, and those living with long-term health conditions.

Participants will gain the knowledge and confidence to support clients in reducing their energy and water costs, accessing available financial assistance, and dealing with utility debt. The session will also cover practical advice on engaging with suppliers and accessing additional support.

Topics covered include:

• Discounts available to eligible households, including the Warm Home Discount (where applicable) and Thames Water social tariffs
• Hardship funds and other support available from utility suppliers
• Ways to reduce energy and water consumption and lower household bills
• Managing utility debt and accessing charitable trust funds and grants
• The Priority Services Register for vulnerable customers and those with health conditions
• Funding available for insulation, heating upgrades and boiler improvements
• Comparing tariffs and switching suppliers to secure the best value
• Useful resources and sources of further advice and support

What previous attendees have said

"Full of useful information and really helpful for the work we do."
Family Support Worker, Slough Early Help Team

"Invaluable information that I can put into practice immediately. I couldn't be happier with the course. All eight members of my team who attended came away inspired and feeling much more confident in supporting our clients. Thank you."
Fran Cummings, Manager, West Berkshire Foodbank