What help is there for fuel poverty?

Free home upgrades via ECO4/Warm Homes, the Warm Home Discount, and supplier hardship schemes.

Fuel Poverty in the UK

If keeping warm is a struggle, you have rights and routes to help. This guide explains fuel poverty and the support available before you pay for upgrades.

Last reviewed: August 2026

What fuel poverty is

A household is in fuel poverty when it cannot afford to keep adequately warm at reasonable cost. It drives the UK's retrofit programmes.

Support available

ECO4 and the Warm Homes Local Grant fund free upgrades; the Warm Home Discount gives a one-off bill rebate; energy suppliers run hardship funds. Local authorities can refer via LA Flex.

Your rights

You should never be charged an application fee for legitimate grants. Use only TrustMark-registered installers and check eligibility via your council or supplier.

FAQs

What help is there for fuel poverty?: Free home upgrades via ECO4/Warm Homes, the Warm Home Discount, and supplier hardship schemes.