A Cumbrian council has launched a fund to support people who rely on heating oil after prices have surged.
Westmorland and Furness Council said around 18,355 properties across its area were estimated to be affected by the price rises.
Global oil prices have driven local heating oil costs up rapidly, with current prices typically ranging between £1.25 and £1.40 per litre, and in some cases reaching as high as £1.70 per litre. It is more than double what people were paying earlier this month.
The authority has launched funding support for residents who rely on domestic heating oil and are experiencing financial hardship due to rising costs.
Most suppliers require a minimum order of 500 litres, households are now facing upfront costs of between £625 and £850 or more, compared to around £325 to £400 previously.
Unlike gas and electricity, heating oil is not covered by the Ofgem energy price cap, meaning households remain exposed to sudden price fluctuations.
Access to the Government’s Household Support Fund is available through Westmorland and Furness Council for those properties facing immediate financial hardship because of the increase in heating oil prices and are at risk of losing immediate access to heating or hot water.
Eligible households can receive a one-off cash award of between £200 and £250, depending on household size, with an additional £20 for each child in full-time education up to the age of 18.
This will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis until it the funding pot is fully committed.
Residents are strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as the Household Support Fund is only available until Tuesday March 31.
From next month, more support will be available for those most in need through the council’s Crisis Resilience Fund.
People can apply for heating oil support now on the council’s website here.
Applicants will be required to provide details including their address, household composition, benefits received and information about their financial situation and heating oil costs.
Supporting evidence, such as a recent utility bill, heating oil quote or invoice, and proof of identity, will also be required.
Only one application per household is allowed until March 31.
