A children’s charity is urging families with a disabled child in Manchester to avoid soaring energy prices by applying for a service to help them reduce household costs by as much as £1,650.

The rising price of gas is set to coincide with the energy price cap increasing by £139 from the start of October – which could leave up to 15 million UK households worse off when their bills arrive.

To help parents and carers of disabled children from across Greater Manchester manage their energy bills and general household finances, charity Caudwell Children has expanded its free Warm Homes service.

The charity-run service has saved parents and carers an average of £1,650 since it was launched last year – by offering families with a disabled child under the age of 19 the following support:

Personalised help from a dedicated Disability Energy Champion,
Funding for essential appliances,
A tailored support plan and assessment of household energy use and finances,
Guidance on energy efficiency, and
Referrals to specialist organisations and government bodies that can provide further support.
Ellie Chesterton, who manages the Warm Homes service at Caudwell Children, said:

“We’re already seeing an increasing number of enquiries from families who are concerned about rising energy bills as the winter months approach.

“The Warm Homes service makes it easier for families to find out what they’re eligible for and to submit an application – because, so often, they simply don’t have the time.

“Our team create an individual plan for every family to meet their needs – whether that be funding for essential appliances such as fridges and washing machines, or tailored help from a Disability Energy Champion.

“There are lots and lots of ways that we can support families of disabled children, so please get in touch with us.”

The Warm Homes service is available to anyone with a disabled person under the age of 19 in their household, providing they live in the East or West Midlands, or the North West of England.

The service is delivered in partnership with expert provider Auriga Services – and the programme is funded by the Energy Saving Trust.