Emergency Fuel Support Aids Over 200,000 in Wales This Winter

More than 200,000 individuals across Wales, including nearly 90,000 children, have benefited from emergency fuel support this winter. This initiative, organized by the Fuel Bank Foundation, aims to assist families in keeping their homes warm during the cold months. Since 2022, the foundation has received £6.9 million in funding from the Welsh Government, with an additional £600,000 committed for the fiscal years of 2025 to 2026.

The support encompasses a range of services, including fuel vouchers, top-ups for prepayment meters, and deliveries of heating fuel to households not connected to the gas grid. Matthew Cole, Chief Executive of the Fuel Bank Foundation, expressed pride in the partnership with the Welsh Government, highlighting its impact on the community.

Impact of Support on Vulnerable Households

“We are very proud to have partnered with the Welsh Government for several years now,” Cole stated. He noted that the initiative has enabled emergency fuel top-ups for over 200,000 people in Wales, with almost 90,000 of them being children. The collaboration has also facilitated the delivery of fuel to over 500 off-grid households and more than 3,000 heated throws to those struggling to heat their homes entirely.

This initiative forms part of a broader anti-poverty programme led by the Welsh Government, which allocates £7 billion in support from 2022 to 2026 to help households manage rising living costs. Since 2019, the government has directed over £27 million to community food organizations to combat food insecurity. Additionally, this year, more than £30 million has been earmarked for enhancing energy efficiency through the Warm Homes Nest scheme.

Commitment to Alleviating Poverty

The Welsh Government is also working to enhance access to financial assistance through the Welsh Benefits Charter, which all 22 councils are currently implementing. This initiative aims to simplify and make the process of claiming support more equitable for residents.

Jane Hutt, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, emphasized the importance of this support in light of global factors that have contributed to rising energy costs. “Global factors like rising energy costs have placed enormous pressure on households. We remain determined to ensure every child in Wales can grow up free from poverty, with dignity and genuine opportunities for their future,” Hutt stated.

She added, “I’m proud of the progress we’re making together with our partners, and we’re committed to building on this success to create a Wales where every family can thrive.”

Residents in need are encouraged to contact Advicelink Cymru at 0808 250 5700 to determine the support available to them.