Extra help is being made available for people in financial crisis facing difficulties with the rising cost of heating oil in Wales.
Support is already provided for those in Wales experiencing fuel poverty with purchasing off-grid fuel through the Discretionary Assistance Fund. The DAF enables anyone with an address in Wales and over the age of sixteen experiencing unexpected financial crisis to apply for a contribution towards their off-grid fuel costs.
The Welsh Government is immediately increasing the amount of funding available for heating oil.
The amount available per award for heating oil is being temporarily raised to £750, from £500 while prices are inflated.
The frequency these payments can be provided, is also being increased from once to twice in a rolling 12 month period, a minimum 3 months apart. This recognises that some people who received support earlier in the winter may need it again now.
Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Jane Hutt said:
With the ongoing conflict in the Middle East causing uncertainty across global markets, we recognise that many people are struggling with the cost-of-living, particularly households who rely on oil for their domestic heating and hot water.
We welcome the UK Government’s announcement of £3.8 million for Wales in 2026 to 2027 and are considering how best to deploy it.
Today’s announcement will provide immediate extra help for those in greatest need to deal with the rise in oil prices.
The DAF is one of a number of schemes in Wales which help people with the cost of living.
Support with off-grid fuel will need to be secured through DAF partners, this includes local authorities.