Energy issues are often a sign of wider challenges. Residents struggling with energy costs may also be facing financial pressures, health issues, housing difficulties or caring responsibilities.

That’s why energy should be part of everyday support conversations. Asking a few simple questions can help identify fuel poverty early and connect people to advice, practical support and longer-term help.

 Some households are more at risk than others, including people who use prepayment meters, households with electric-only heating, and those with caring responsibilities.

Too many Merton residents are missing out on valuable energy support. By working together, we can help more people access the assistance available and prevent problems from becoming more severe.

If someone needs specialist advice or more intensive support, your role may simply be to connect them with the most appropriate service.

In Merton, there are three voluntary and community sector programmes that provide specialist energy advice:

• Wimbledon Guild's Energy Redress Service supports Merton residents aged 50 and over.
• Energy Boost Merton, delivered by Thinking Works and Citizens Advice Merton & Lambeth, supports residents under the age of 50.
• Thinking Works Specialist Energy Advice Service supports residents of any age who are on a low income, experiencing fuel poverty, or have a health condition that is affected by their home environment.

By understanding the reach of each service, you can help service users access the specialist support that best meets their needs.

Vulnerable clients may benefit from joining their energy supplier’s Priority Services Register (PSR). This free service provides additional support for people who are older, living with a disability or long-term health condition, pregnant, have young children, or are experiencing difficult circumstances.

Support can include priority assistance during power cuts, accessible communications, and help managing energy services.

For clear, up-to-date information on energy issues, we recommend the Citizens Advice Bureau website which offers guidance on energy bills and payments, meters and smart meters, switching suppliers, energy efficiency, complaints and disputes, power cuts and moving home.

It also gives guidance on how money can be saved in heating bills.

National Energy Action (NEA) offers free training for people working in the voluntary and community sector, helping you to recognise energy problems, have supportive conversations and understand what help is available.

Together, we can help more people stay warm, well and financially resilient. By connecting residents to the right specialist energy advice service, we can ensure they receive the support that best meets their needs.  
 
If you or your organisation would benefit from additional support or training on energy-related issues and referral pathways, please email warmandwell@wimbledonguild.co.uk to find out how we can help.