Households in Great Britain to receive £200 to help with rising energy costs - here's what's happening

Over £6 billion worth of state-backed loans will be made available to energy firms via HM Treasury it's been revealed today (3 February) - equating to an energy bill discount of £200 per household.

In recent months, the devolved Governments in Northern Ireland and Wales have provided one-off payments of £200 to help households on certain benefits to pay their energy bills but until now the UK and Scottish Governments had yet to act. 

The announcement comes on the same day April's energy price cap has been revealed by regulator Ofgem. From XXXX, the price typical users will pay for their gas and electricity will rocket from £XXX a year to £xxx a year from XXX.  

Check if you're eligible for help with your energy bills

If you're struggling with your energy bills you may be entitled to:

• Cold Weather Payments. Households can get a £25 payment for every seven days of freezing weather. 
• Warm Home Discount. Households on a low income and in receipt of certain benefits may be able to get £140 off their energy bill. Some will need to apply for the discount directly from their energy provider, while others are automatically eligible.
• Winter Fuel Payments. If you were born on or before 26 September 1955 you could get between £100 and £300 to help pay your heating bills. You'll get the payment automatically if you get the state pension or another social security benefit (not housing benefit, council tax reduction, child benefit or universal credit).

More to follow...