Template:Courier-OCT-25-14

WHERE TO TURN FOR HELP WITH BILLS THIS WINTER

As the weather turns colder, Claygate residents are reminded that help is available for anyone struggling with energy bills. The first port of call should be Citizens Advice. Citizens Advice Esher and District is located at Elmbridge Civic Centre in Esher. It has trained staff and volunteers who can help with the following matters:

GRANTS TO HELP PAY OFF ENERGY DEBTS

Anyone in debt with their energy supplier might be able to get a grant to help pay it off. If your supplier doesn't offer grants, one might still be available from the British Gas Energy Trust: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/energy/energy-supply/get-help-paying-your-bills/struggling-to-pay-your-energy-bills/ it's also possible to check on eligibility for the Warm Home Discount Scheme at: www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme

AGREEING A PAYMENT PLAN WITH AN ENERGY SUPPLIER

Householders struggling to pay energy bills should tell their supplier they want to pay through a payment plan. which will cover the amount owed plus an amount for current use. They will pay fixed amounts over a set period, paying what they can afford. A supplier has to take into account how much the customer can afford and how much energy they'll use in the future.

HELP TO CLAIM UNIVERSAL CREDIT

Those out of work or on a low income might be eligible for Universal Credit. The advisers can help residents make their first claim. They can be reached by phone (Freephone 0800 144 8444), or on webchat between Bam and 6pm, Monday to Friday at www.citizensadvice.org. uk/about-us/contact-us/contact-us/help-to-claim

HELP WITH SCHOOL COSTS

Anyone on a low income or claiming Universal Credit might be able to get free school meals for their children by applying on the gov.uk website. Those who qualify might also be able to receive other help with school costs — and the child's school might get extra money. Help might also be available from the local education authority with some costs such as uniforms, school activities and school transport: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/family/education/help-with-school-costs

HEALTHY START VOUCHERS AND FREE VITAMINS

Residents on a low income and at least 10 weeks pregnant or with a child under four years old, might qualify for free vitamins and Healthy Start vouchers for milk, fruit and vegetables and infant formula milk. Midwives and health visitors can advise on eligibility, or advice can be sought from the Healthy Start helpline on 0345 607 6823 or check online at www.healthystart.nhs.uk/how-to-apply

Citizens Advice can advise on all these issues. Call CAB on 01372 464 770; visit the Civic Centre in Esher on weekdays between 10.30am and 3.30pm (Wednesdays from 1pm to 3.30); email bureau@eshercab.org.uk; or visit www. eshercab.org.uk