New fund available to support Central Bedfordshire residents struggling with rising heating oil costs

Central Bedfordshire Council says it has been allocated £2.7 million by the Government to provide crisis support to households up to April 2027 through a new Crisis and Resilience Fund.

Of this fund, £106,000 will support low-income households in the area that rely on oil to heat their homes.

The fund is designed to provide short-term support to residents experiencing financial difficulty, and can help with essential costs such as food, energy and utility bills, essential transport costs and basic household items.

The first phase of the funding is now open, specifically for low-income households, with wider support available from April 1.

Central Bedfordshire Council’s executive member for finance Cllr John Baker said: "We know that the cost of living continues to put real pressure on households across Central Bedfordshire, and that those who rely on heating oil are particularly affected by sudden increases in costs.

"These rising prices could mean that some households are at risk of losing access to heating and hot water. "The new Crisis and Resilience Fund allows us to support those households most affected by increases in heating oil costs, while also forming part of a wider approach to supporting residents facing financial hardship.

"This is the first phase of support, with wider funding available from 1 April 2026 to provide broader support for residents experiencing a crisis or sudden financial shock. "Many households are dealing with multiple challenges at the same time, and for some, a sudden increase in costs can quickly become a crisis.

"This initial phase focuses on providing practical, short-term help with essential costs to make sure residents can maintain access to heating, food and other basic needs.

"Our priority is to support those facing the greatest financial pressure and ensure help is available when it is most urgently needed."

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