Winter 2021/22 Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme
This new payment scheme, announced by the Minister for Communities Deirdre Hargey in collaboration with the Consumer Council, Bryson House Charitable and a range of local energy companies, will provide one off support of up to £100 worth of gas or oil to 20,000 households across the North of Ireland that are experiencing an emergency fuel crisis during Winter 2021/22.
Applications can be made up until 31st March 2022.
The scheme is intended for those experiencing an emergency fuel crisis.
To be eligible for support, one of the following must apply:
1a. Have a total gross annual household income of less than £23,000 (Do not include Disability Living Allowance, Personal Independence Payment, Carer’s Allowance or Attendance Allowance in this calculation)
OR
1b. Have been made unemployed in the last 8 weeks and awaiting confirmation of benefit / first benefit payment
OR
1c. Have had benefits payments recently interrupted
In addition to one of the above, one of the following must also apply:
2a. Have run out of chosen energy type (for pay-as-you-go electricity/gas, or oil customers)
OR
2b. Have 3-5 days or less worth or less of your chosen energy type (for pay-as-you-go electricity/gas, or oil customers)
OR
2c. Have received an electricity/gas bill within the last 5 days and cannot afford to pay it
OR
2d. Are due to receive an electricity/gas bill within the next 5 days and cannot afford to pay it
If you would like support in making your online application or would like more information on the scheme please contact our Welfare Advice Coordinator, Áine Malone on 028 96949327 for assistance.
