Most of us take it for granted that when we’re cold, we just boost the heating. But, in actual fact, 5% of UK households don’t have a central heating system and installing one can be expensive for some. The good news is, there is funding support available for those who need it!
Where Does This Central Heating Funding Come From?
The First Time Central Heating Grant is part of the current Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Scheme. It’s a scheme that Energy Companies must donate a portion of their profits to, to support fuel-poor households and renewable technologies. Read more about what the ECO scheme is in another of our blogs.
The current ECO scheme, ECO3, is coming to an end in March 2022 when it will be replaced by ECO4. We don’t know yet whether ECO4 will still support First Time Central Heating measures, so the sooner you get your applications in the better!
Who is Eligible for the First Time Central Heating Grant?
Most importantly for this grant, you need to be living in a home that does not currently have a central heating system installed but that does have a gas meter present. Then you can see about whether you qualify for ECO funding.
The ECO scheme is designed to support the people who need it most. To qualify, you must receive one of the following benefits…
- Income-related employment and support allowance (ESA)
- Income-based job seekers allowance (JSA)
- Income Support
- Pension Guarantee Credit
- Tax Credits
- Universal Credit
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Child Benefit
- Constant Attendance Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Severe Disablement Allowance
- War Pensions Mobility Supplement
However, if you don’t receive any of these benefits, you may still be able to get ECO funding!
How Can LA Flex Unlock ECO Funding?
The government recognises that it’s not just people who are on benefits that could do with some extra support. That’s why they developed an extension through the Local Authority Flexibility scheme (i.e. LA Flex).
To put it simply, any Local Authority can decide to extend ECO funding to other households within their area as they see fit. They’ll usually have their own parameters to follow, such as elderly households, or households where someone has a health condition that would be exacerbated by cold temperatures.
Each Local Authority is different, and they may offer full or partial funding. For example, under the LA Flex Scheme in Sheffield and Rotherham, you could get a central heating system installed completely for free!
How Can I Apply for the First Time Central Heating Grant?
At Effective Home, we are experts in unlocking funding for those who need it. Fill in our online form today to see if you’re eligible, and one of our experts will get in touch to talk you through your options.
