SOUTH WORCESTERSHIRE CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU

About a third of Malvern Hills district residents do not have access to mains gas and have to rely on oil, solid fuel, electricity or LPG to heat their homes. Between 800 and 1,000 households are thought to use LPG.

Households who use heating oil or LPG can struggle to cut their costs as they don’t have the same ability to shop around as those who are on grid. But there is action that you can take to cut costs and save money, without having to turn down the heating.

Stocking up on oil now, before temperatures start to drop, can help you to avoid the high costs of buying during the winter. The cost of oil is usually at its highest in December, January and February, as extra demand can push up the cost. Make sure you shop around for the best price and ask suppliers about flexible payment options if you struggle to pay the whole cost up front.

Joining an oil club is also a great way of saving money as you can often get a better price by clubbing together with others and buying in bulk. This will also cut down the number of trips the oil supplier needs to make, which could reduce delivery costs and is better for the environment.

To see if there’s an oil club in your local area, put your postcode into the oil club map at www.citizensadvice.org.uk/oilclubs. If you would like to set up your own club, CAB can help. Come into the bureau or visit the website to find out everything you need to know.

In addition, Malvern Hills District Co fuel poverty in its largely rural area. To find out more, contact the District Council on 01684 862151.

It’s also worth checking whether there are any grants or discounts you are entitled to.

For further information and advice, contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau or see

www.adviceguide.org.uk.

Your local bureau – South Worcestershire Citizens Advice Bureau is open:

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 10am – 4pm

Wed (Specialist Debt Advice – by appointment)

Tel: 01684 563611