Help for Hebden Royd residents with Energy Crisis

“We are here to help” was the message to Hebden Royd residents from Citizens Advice. With the energy market in crisis, many customers are facing a more than 50% increase in bills. Linked to the cut in Universal Credit, the end of the furlough scheme and the onset of winter, the Citizen's Advice say they are geared up to help.

The Town Council funded Citizen's Advice worker is able to provide 1:1 support via the telephone or in person to the residents of Hebden Royd. The service is contactable on 0808 278 7879  or via email, using the Contact Us section on www.calderdalecab.org.uk. A drop-in session is also for Hebden Royd residents between the hours of 10am and 1pm every Thursday at Mytholmroyd Community Centre, providing free, confidential, impartial and independent advice.

The new service means that anyone needing to reduce their energy bills, will also have access to a separate energy adviser. This adviser helps people change tariffs, provides tips to keep their home warm, helps them access Warm Homes Discount, access grants for new boilers, cavity wall and loft insulation as appropriate.

CAd Rob, Julie Liz

Mayor of HRTC Cllr Rob Freeth, Julie and Liz

Caroline Jones, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice Calderdale, said: “If you are worried about your income, please get in touch. You’re not alone and there is support available. Depending on a person’s circumstances, the support can include a benefits check, support with essential costs, help with debt, free school meals and food bank vouchers.”

Caroline continued: “If your energy supplier goes out of business, please make sure not to switch tariff or supplier until your account is moved to the new supplier. You’ll still have gas and electricity. The gas and electricity regulator, Ofgem, will move you to a new supplier. They’ll explain what will happen with your account. You might find it harder to get any money you’re owed if you switch before this happens.”

Councillor Rob Freeth Mayor of Hebden Royd commented: “Provision of free, confidential, impartial advice from the Citizens Advice is an extremely important step in supporting the people of Hebden Royd at a time when many families are under extreme pressure due to rising prices, challenges to living standards and wellbeing. Of particular importance at this time of rising gas prices and cuts to Universal Credit is the access that CAB provide to a specific energy advisor.”

Added: Thursday, 7 October 2021

Photos from Hebden Royd