Winter Cost of Living Support for Havering residents and households
Emergency Assistance Scheme (EAS)
Havering Council has expanded its Emergency Assistance Scheme (EAS) through the Havering Helps initiative, offering more support to residents impacted by cost-of-living pressures.
Eligible residents, including low-income households and those affected by the cuts to national winter fuel payments, may qualify for a one-time £100 grant to assist with essentials like food and heating.
To see if you're eligible, please visit the following website: Emergency Assistance Scheme
Additional winter support
Additional support is available for residents this winter, including:
- Warm Spaces: Libraries and community centres across the borough will provide free heated spaces for residents.
- Energy Doctors: This free service offers energy-saving advice and minor home repairs, potentially reducing energy costs by up to £209 annually.
- School Holiday Meals: Extended through to March 2025, this program provides £15 per eligible child each week during school holidays to ensure children have meals when school is out.
- Council Tax Relief: A £50 credit will automatically be applied to the Council Tax accounts of single parents receiving Council Tax Support.
- Residents are also encouraged to apply for Pension Credit, which could provide access to the Winter Fuel Payment. You can apply even if you haven’t paid National Insurance contributions, receive a small pension, live with adult family members, or own your home or live in a care facility.
The deadline for claiming is Saturday 21 December. Visit GOV.UK or call Citizens Advice Havering on 01708 763531.
For more details on support or to apply for EAS, visit the Havering Helps website, email costoflivingresponse@havering.gov.uk, or call the Cost of Living helpline on 01708 432280.
For other information on help for households available from the government, please visit: Help for Households - Get government cost of living support