Help with utility bills (gas, electric and water)

If you are struggling with household bills, there is local and national support available.

Community support

West Northamptonshire Council works with local groups and charities that understand local needs and can offer practical help.

Find more local support in our community and voluntary organisation directory.

Housing Association tenants

If you rent from a Housing Association, speak to your provider. They may offer extra help through their partner organisations.

Utility bills

Utilities are essential services for your home, such as gas, electricity, water, sewerage, phone, broadband and mobile.

Many utility companies offer social tariffs or discount schemes for people on low incomes or certain benefits.

These usually include:

• low or no set-up fees
• fixed monthly prices with no mid-contract rises
• the option to leave without penalty if your circumstances change

Schemes vary by supplier.

Find out more about:

• broadband and phone social tariffs - Ofcom
• water bill support - Anglian Water
• energy bill help - Anglian Water

Energy bills

If you are worried about paying for gas or electricity:

• contact your supplier as soon as possible - they must work with you to agree a payment plan you can afford
• ask about:
  • payment breaks or reductions
  • hardship funds
  • energy-saving advice
  • Priority Service Register for extra support

Government schemes include:

• Winter Fuel Payment (between £250 and £600 to help pay your heating bills)
• Cold Weather Payment (£25 per 7-day cold spell between November and March each year)
• Warm Home Discount (a one-off £150 discount on your electricity bill)
• Fuel Direct Scheme (repay energy debt from benefits)

Local and national help

• Community Law Service offers free advice on bills, debts and energy schemes (call 01604 621038 or email [email protected])
• See guidance about Council Tax reductions, discounts and exemptions
• Northamptonshire ACRE helps off-gas villages get the best price for heating oil
• LEAP and Turn2us are national charities offering energy support

Last updated 27 March 2026