Birmingham Winter Support Fund offers lifeline to those in Fuel Poverty

With over six million people living in fuel poverty across the UK, the Cadent Foundation’s Winter Support Fund enables its charity partners, including Citizens Advice and Groundwork UK, to get access to additional financial resources, helping them to make an immediate impact for people needing extra support when it is most needed.

Ranjit Blythe, Managing Director at the Cadent Foundation, which was established by the UK's biggest gas distribution network, Cadent, to address fuel poverty across the UK and ensure people are safe and warm in their homes, said:

“The start of 2025 has brought with it multiple cold weather warnings. Our priority is to ensure that people living in vulnerable situations are supported and protected during these challenging winter conditions, and we are prepared to assist those in need.

“The Cadent Foundation's Winter Support Fund is available to help thousands of homes across the country in areas of high deprivation, including the North West and Midlands, where the snow is predicted to land. Each eligible household can receive up to two vouchers, with the option of also having access to essential heating and cooking appliances.

“We have already supported thousands of households so far, and with more freezing temperatures expected, we would urge those who are struggling the most to prepare ahead of time and seek support through initiatives like our Winter Support Fund. Our charity partners are on hand to identify and access the assistance that would be best suited to each household so please don’t hesitate to reach out for help."

Items available include:

· Food vouchers

· Energy vouchers

· Self-heating mattress toppers

· Duvets

· Heated blankets

· Foot warmers

The charity partners distributing the Winter Support Fund include:

· Citizens Advice

· Royal National Institute for Blind People

· Groundwork

Cadent Foundation has shared some tips below for those who might be struggling during the cold weather snap:

1. Seek support: Organisations like Groundwork’s Green Doctors are there to share tips on how to best keep your home warm, how to reduce heating costs and advising on areas like insulating your home and making energy usage more efficient.

2. Find financial assistance: Local charity initiatives and government grants are available to help out with energy bills, it’s just knowing where and how to find these. Organisations like Citizens Advice can help to identify the right support, as well as provide access to funds such as the Cadent Foundation’s Winter Support Fund.

3. Visit community centres and charities: Several community centres and charities have been set up to assist those who are struggling, particularly when it comes to energy, and can offer support however it is needed.

4. Talk to your energy provider: If energy bills are too much, don’t hesitate to contact your energy provider and ask about deferring payments or setting up a payment plan. Providers can offer support and guidance, as well as information about the charitable organisations providing assistance.