Unlock Free Energy-Saving Gadgets for Thousands of Pensioners – Here’s How!

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Every local authority has been assigned a proportion of the fund and can choose how to utilize the resources to assist residents in need.

North Lincolnshire Council is providing 5,000 complimentary air fryers to low-income retirees.

The council is also distributing over 1,300 slow cookers and nearly 400 one-cup kettles.

The appliances can either be picked up at local venues or delivered to those unable to leave their homes.

The application process for receiving these items has finished, but distribution is expected to occur over the next few weeks.

This initiative follows the provision of £200 in cash to North Lincolnshire retirees who are not on Pension Credit but receive council tax support, aimed at assisting with energy expenses.

Frank Cooper, from Scunthorpe, who obtained a complimentary air fryer, remarked: “Since we got it, we haven’t utilized the gas oven whatsoever.

“We can prepare quick meals economically, as it’s just the two of us, and there’s no wastage.

“It’s extremely simple to operate and reduces the amount of cleaning up too. I even prepared crispy roast potatoes for Christmas in it. It’s fantastic.”

If you reside in North Lincolnshire and are a pensioner, more information about the free household appliances can be found on the council’s website.

Assistance for those living outside North Lincolnshire

You may qualify for help through the Household Support Fund, even if you reside outside North Lincolnshire.

However, each local council in England has been allocated a distinct share of the £421 million fund, which means eligibility varies based on your location.

Some councils are distributing vouchers to cover energy bills or food, while others are directly crediting funds into bank accounts or providing energy-efficient devices.

Your eligibility for assistance is largely dependent on your place of residence, although in most instances, if you are on benefits, have a low income, or are vulnerable, you should qualify for help.

In the latest round of the Household Support Fund, many local councils are offering support to retirees who missed out on the Winter Fuel Payment due to ineligibility for Pension Credit.

Keep in mind that councils have been allocating assistance through the Household Support Fund since last October and have until the end of March to distribute their share.

This indicates that some councils may have already exhausted their funds, and you might be too late.

Verify with your local council to learn if you are eligible for any assistance. You can locate your local council at www.gov.uk/find-local-council.

Alternative methods to obtain complimentary energy-efficient devices

You may be able to acquire energy-saving devices at minimal or no cost via your local council.

Apart from the Household Support Fund, some councils provide free white goods through local assistance programs.

For instance, North Yorkshire Council offers households confronting financial challenges free white goods.

Households could receive items such as gas cookers, microwaves, tumble dryers, and washing machines.

However, you will need to provide evidence of your need for additional support, whether by receiving benefits or being low income.

If you are a current or former BT employee, you might also gain assistance through the BT Benevolent Fund.

You must also demonstrate financial hardship; assistance may include payment for white goods and other household necessities.

You can apply for the BT Benevolent Fund on their website.

You could also be eligible for energy-efficient devices through your energy provider.

For example, Octopus Energy announced the distribution of 20,000 electric blankets this winter, and OVO is offering electric throws and mattress toppers.

Customers of EDF may also qualify for free air fryers, kettles, and slow cookers.

Consult your supplier to find out what assistance is available.

Do you have a financial issue that needs resolving? Reach out to us at money-sm@news.co.uk.

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