At Northern Energy, we understand that global events, including the ongoing situation in the Middle East, are having a real impact on energy markets. As a result, many households are understandably concerned about rising fuel costs, and the challenge of keeping their homes warm. With LPG and heating oil prices subject to fluctuation, it’s more important than ever that customers are aware of the support available to them.
That’s why we’re committed to keeping our customers fully informed about the latest government schemes, designed to help households on LPG stay comfortable, safe, and warm. From the introduction of the Crisis and Resilience Fund in England to emergency heating payments in Scotland, there are a number of initiatives in place to provide practical, timely assistance to those that need it most.
England – Crisis and resilience fund (CRF)
In England, the introduction of the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) marks an important step towards providing longer-term, more sustainable financial support for households facing rising living costs. Replacing the previous Household Support Fund, the CRF will run through to March 2029 and is designed to help those most in need manage essential expenses, including energy bills.
A key focus of the fund is supporting off-grid households, particularly those relying on LPG or heating oil. Around £27 million has been specifically allocated to assist low-income and rural communities, recognising the unique challenges these households face when it comes to heating their homes.
Applications will be managed at a local level, meaning residents will need to apply directly through their local council. Most councils are expected to have dedicated CRF information pages available on their websites from 1st April 2026, making it easier for customers to find guidance, check eligibility criteria, and apply for support. In many cases, support is designed to be delivered quickly, particularly for households facing urgent fuel shortages.
In addition to helping with energy costs, the fund can also provide assistance with other essential needs such as food and housing. This broader approach ensures that vulnerable households receive more comprehensive support, helping to ease overall financial pressure rather than addressing a single issue in isolation.
Wider support across the UK
Alongside the CRF, a number of wider support measures remain in place across the UK to help ease the pressure of energy costs, The Warm Home Discount will continue to provide a £150 annual rebate for eligible households until at least 2030/31, offering support during winter months.
The Winter Fuel Payment has also been reinstated for pensioners in England and Wales born before 22 June 1960, with eligibility linked to income thresholds. This helps ensure that older residents who are often more vulnerable to cold weather receive additional financial support when they need it most.
The government has also introduced the Warm Homes Plan, a £15 billion initiative aimed at improving energy efficiency through fully funded upgrades for low-income households, helping to reduce bills in the longer term.
Energy prices are expected to ease slightly, with the Ofgem energy price cap forecast to drop by just under 7% from April 2026 compared to the previous quarter. While this won’t eliminate cost pressures entirely, it’s a positive shift in the right direction. However, the outlook remains uncertain. If tensions in the Middle East continue, many experts are predicting the price cap will rise again at the following quarterly review.
Additional funding for off-grid households
Further strengthening this support, the UK government has announced £53 million in additional funding specifically targeted at low-income households that rely on LPG or oil heating. This recognises the added challenges faced by off-grid properties, which are often more exposed to price volatility and have fewer energy options available.
This funding includes dedicated funding across the devolved nation. In Scotland, a £10 million fund is being delivered alongside an additional £5.4 million managed by Advice Direct Scotland. In Wales, heating oil support payments have been temporarily increased from £500 to £750 to reflect market conditions. Meanwhile, Northern Ireland has been allocated £17 million to support vulnerable off-grid communities.
Together, these measures will help to ensure that households, particularly those in rural and off-grid areas, have access to the financial support they need to stay warm and manage energy costs, even as market conditions continue to change.
Scotland emergency heating support
As from 1st April 2026, the Scottish Government is introducing the Scottish Emergency Heating Scheme, a targeted initiative designed to support households living in fuel poverty who are off the mains gas grid. Eligible residents will be contacted directly to make them aware of the support available, ensuring those who need it most are informed and able to access help quickly.
The scheme, managed by Advice Direct Scotland (ADS), will provide £300 to help households cover the cost of LPG and oil heating, offering vital support without adding financial pressure. Customers will apply directly to the fund, and once approved, payments will be issued weekly via BACS straight to their fuel supplier. Each payment will be clearly allocated against the customer’s name and address, ensuring it is applied accurately.
Importantly, this funding is intended to support future energy needs, meaning it can only be used for deliveries from 1st April 2026 onwards, and can’t be used to clear existing account balances. The scheme is also open to domestic metered properties and will run for a six-month period, providing timely and practical assistance to help households stay warm during periods of financial strain.
How Northern Energy can help
At Northern Energy, we want to reassure our customers that our LPG supply remains secure. Refineries have confirmed there are no supply constraints, and deliveries from our suppliers continue as normal.
We have also made significant investments in both our primary storage and delivery fleet, ensuring we are well equipped to support our customer demand and maintain reliable service levels, even during periods of uncertainty.
Our priority is, and always will be, to provide a reliable and competitively priced service while supporting our customers through changing market conditions. We understand that every household’s situation is different, and we’re here to help however we can.
If you need guidance on any of the support schemes mentioned, or if you’re concerned about your fuel supply, our team is always on hand to help. Whether you’re looking to arrange a delivery or simply want to understand what support you may be eligible for, we’re just a phone call away.
Call us on 01423 772 789 or contact us.
For more information on the Crisis and Resilience Fund, customers in England should check their local council website from 1st April 2026.
Customers in Scotland can find further details and apply through Advice Direct Scotland.