Popular schemes offering households hundreds of pounds to help with heating

Experts have revealed the energy and property-related winter schemes that cash-conscious Brits are searching for the most.

Changes made to the Winter Fuel Payment in July have sparked online searches for help available.

The Government has faced an ongoing backlash for restricting previously universal winter fuel payments of up to £300 to only those on Pension Credit.

The most searched term was the Winter Fuel Payment at 2,885,200 searches between October 2023 and September 2024, according to the firm Utility Bidder.

The Winter Fuel Payment has made national headlines after it was announced that the government would scrap the payment for thousands of pensioners across the country. The scheme provides a one-off payment of £300 to those who have reached state pension age and is to be contributed towards heating costs.

The second most searched form of assistance was the Household Support Fund, at 1,099,000 searches. The Household Support Fund was introduced to help vulnerable households manage the cost of living crisis. The government program financially helps Brits who are struggling to pay for food, energy and water bills to name a few.

Third was the Cold Weather Payment at 997,200 searches. This payment helps vulnerable households between November 2024 and March 2025 and claimants will receive £25 per week if temperatures in the local area drop below 0C for seven consecutive days.

The fourth most searched was the Warm Home Discount, with 601,600 searches. This is for households on a low income or receiving pension credit – a £150 discount is made towards energy bills.

The fifth most seached was the Home Energy Check, at 500,000. This is a scheme run by local Age UKs to provide a free home check to ensure a property is energy efficient and not losing heat unnecessarily.

James Longley, managing director at Utility Bidder said: “The UK offers a range of government-backed winter schemes designed to ease the financial strain of energy costs during the colder months. For example, the Winter Fuel Payment provides a tax-free sum of up to £300 to eligible households, while the Warm Home Discount offers a £150 reduction in energy bills for those who qualify.

“When applying for a winter scheme, ensure you check annually for any potential changes to the eligibility criteria. It is also essential to apply early, especially for funds with deadlines, to avoid disappointment. You should contact your local authority directly for discretionary support if needed.

“These schemes are not just about immediate financial relief — they play a vital role in supporting vulnerable groups such as pensioners, low-income households, and individuals with disabilities. They also contribute to longer-term government goals by promoting energy efficiency and helping families stay warm while reducing overall energy consumption.

“Households should also explore other measures, such as government grants for home insulation or boiler upgrades, which can provide lasting energy savings. By combining immediate relief from winter schemes with long-term efficiency improvements, homes can manage current challenges and build resilience against rising energy costs.”