Latest government advice and information

​The latest government advice for households and businesses can be found by following the link here. ​

It is important to note that if you receive a text, email, or other form of communication asking you to apply for the new Energy Price Guarantee, it will likely be a scam. The discount is applied automatically, and there is no need to contact your energy supplier to ensure it is applied properly. You can report any suspicious messages by clicking the link here. 

Government Support

Winter Fuel Payments​

• If you were born on or before 26 September 1955 you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills.
• You will get your Winter Fuel Payment automatically (you do not need to claim) if you’re eligible and either:
  • Get the State Pension
  • Get another social security benefit (not Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, Child Benefit or Universal Credit)
  • If you do not get either of these, or if you live abroad, you may need to make a claim

Warm Homes Discount

• ​A discount for some people getting Pension Credit or some people in low-income household.
• This scheme will reopen in November and will allow households to secure a discount of up to £140 on their energy bills.
• There are 2 ways to qualify for the Warm Home Discount Scheme:
  • you get the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit - known as the ‘core group’
  • you’re on a low income and meet your energy supplier’s criteria for the scheme - known as the ‘broader group’
• When the scheme reopens you will be able to find information on how to apply here. 

Local Support

CAP Debt Advice

CAP provide free help and advice to get out of debt, find a job, manage your money or gain vital life skills. 
Find out more here.

Guildford Salvation Army Food Bank

The Guildford Salvation Army Food hub operates is open twice a week at Woodbridge Road Church and Community Centre, Woodbridge Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4QQ.
Opening times: Monday and Tuesday 9.30am to 11.30am

You can pick up or donate non-perishable food. Contact by email or phone to arrange a pick up time.

North Guildford Food Bank

They provide temporary help for individuals and families through food parcels. To access it, you will need a referral from a partner organisation - you can find a list here.

The Hive (Park Barn Drive, GU2 8EN)

The Hive is nestled behind the trees along Park Barn Drive, just by Kings College School. The centre is an accessible space, open to everyone of all ages. The Hive celebrates bringing people together and providing communities with somewhere to get together, enjoy and be inspired.

Services offered at The Hive:

• community transport
• community meals on wheels
• activities hub
• free play zone
• community fridge
• community pantry
• The Honeypot Cafe
• hairdressers
• Thrive at The Hive: a shop of pre-loved items

Opening times: Monday to Thursday: 9am to 4pm and Friday: 9am to 3.30pm
Accessibility: Disabled access, disabled toilets, car parking.

National Advice & Support

National Energy Action (NEA) 

• For advice and support for heating your home, click here or call 0800 304 7159
• For steps to help you manage your energy bills and keep your home warm this winter, click here

Smart Energy GB 

• For tips on how to make small changes to improve the energy efficiency of your home, click here
• To find out how to use a smart meter to save money, click here

Simple Energy Advice 

• For advice on how to reduce your energy bills, make your home warmer, plan home improvements and make your home greener, click here