Safe, warm and supported - this winter and always Need help with energy bills or keeping warm?

If your home has storage heaters:

• Charge them overnight on off-peak electricity
  Most storage heaters are designed to take in heat when electricity is cheaper at night (often called “Economy 7”). Make sure the input control is turned up so they charge fully.

• Use the heat gradually during the day
  Keep the output low in the morning so the stored heat lasts into the evening when it gets colder.

• Check the settings each day
  As temperatures drop, increase the input so your heater stores more heat for the next day.

If you have a gas or electric boiler with radiators:

• Set your thermostat between 18–21°C
  This is usually warm enough for most homes without wasting energy.

• Use timer settings
  Heating your home only when you need it—like mornings and evenings—can reduce bills.

• Bleed your radiators
  If radiators have cold spots, they may need bleeding so they heat properly (you can request help if you’re unsure).

No matter your heating system:

• Close curtains once it gets dark to keep heat in, but open them during the day to let sunlight warm the room.

• Block draughts around doors, letterboxes, and windows with inexpensive draught excluders or rolled towels.

• Move furniture away from heaters and radiators so heat can circulate properly.

• Use rugs on bare floors to help keep rooms warmer.

• Layer clothing, including socks and a jumper.

• Use blankets or throws when sitting down.

• Warm up one room and spend most of your time there, if heating the whole property isn't possible.

• Keep doors closed between rooms to stop heat escaping.

As temperatures drop below freezing, please keep the following in mind:

• Keep your home above 12°C if possible to help prevent damp and frozen pipes.

• Know where your stop tap is in case you need to turn water off due to a burst pipe.

• Report any leaks or dripping taps quickly, as they can freeze and cause bigger problems.

• Take care on paths and steps—they may become icy. We will grit communal areas where possible.

If you’re having difficulty with heating costs:

• Let us know—we may be able to refer you to support services, energy-efficiency schemes, or grant funding.

• Check whether you qualify for help such as the Warm Home Discount, Winter Fuel Payment, or Cold Weather Payments.

• We can also offer advice on running your heating system as efficiently as possible.