Charities and community organisations who are working to tackle fuel poverty this winter are being urged to apply for a share of a support fund after National Grid more than doubled the amount available.

National Grid Electricity Distribution’s Community Matters Fund has already supported more than 900 grassroots organisations since it was launched in 2021 as an urgent response to the cost-of-living crisis.

Now National Grid has increased the amount of support available to £5 million for the latest phase of funding. The company is calling on charities, councils and community groups of all sizes to apply for fuel poverty support grants of up to £10,000. Grants will support grassroots organisations who are tackling fuel poverty in their communities by helping people to save energy, keep their homes warm and access warm community spaces this winter. 

Chris Hayton, director of corporate affairs at National Grid Electricity Distribution, said: “Unfortunately, many families will be struggling to keep their homes warm this winter, which is why I’m pleased we have been able to increase the amount of support available. 

“Our fund is open to all grassroots organisations that are working to support the most vulnerable in our communities. It will help them provide a lifeline by supporting projects that will help households stay warm this winter by offering support and energy efficiency advice, contributing to the overall wellbeing and resilience of the communities and homes we serve. 

“Charities and community groups will also have access to a wealth of invaluable resources, including free energy efficiency advice materials, tailor-made for the communities they work with.”

Support will be given to projects committed to:

●  Helping people get energy tariff advice or support accessing funding schemes, including, but not limited to, winter fuel discounts and Social Fund schemes

●  Providing energy efficiency or heating solutions to people living in fuel poverty

●  Operating a ‘Warm Bank’ in a community building

●  Improving energy efficiency in a community building used as a warm space

●  Providing warm packs to vulnerable households e.g. radiator bleed keys, heavy curtains, blankets, radiator foil etc.

●  Other innovative approaches to combating fuel poverty

Registered charities, community groups and local authorities are all eligible to apply, using the application form available at www.nationalgrid.co.uk/community-matters-fund 

The closing date for submissions is Friday 10 November. Follow the fund on social media #GridCommunityFund.