New helpline is lifeline for most vulnerable

With winter approaching, vulnerable householders will benefit from a new helpline available from this week. Funded by Britain's biggest power companies, the ‘Home Heat’ helpline – 0800 33 66 99 – is a concerted effort by energy suppliers, supported by four government departments, to act against fuel poverty. The helpline will be a one-stop service for customers and their representatives.

Speaking today at the launch of the Energy Retail Association’s new helpline, energy minister Malcolm Wicks said: “As the clocks go back and with a colder than normal winter predicted, now’s the time to bridge the divide between the help that’s available and the low-income households that need it. The Home Heat helpline will give callers essential information about tariff and payment options, access to energy efficiency and heating measures and help people claim all of the benefits available to them.

“It’s essential they take full advantage of all that the energy industry and government can offer. This helpline will help do exactly that.”