The Almshouse Association regularly posts a news summary of the latest Policy and Governance legislation that could impact / requires action from our member charities, with links to further information where applicable.
Energy and Environment
- Energy Crisis Support – The Government has outlined support which will be offered to help offset the steep rise in energy bills. This support comes after Ofgem announced that the cap on energy tariffs will rise by 54% to just under £2,000 a year on average.
These steps include:- All households will be receiving ÂŁ200 off their energy bills through a government loan to energy companies. This will be applied to domestic electricity customers from October 2022
- Properties in council tax bands A-D will receive a ÂŁ150 refund in April 2022. Those who pay by direct debit will receive ÂŁ150 into their bank accounts. Local authorities will also have access to ÂŁ144m in discretionary funding to assist vulnerable people, individuals on low incomes or those in council tax bands E-H.
- Eligibility of the warm home discount scheme will be expanded with an additional ÂŁ10 increase from October 2022 to ÂŁ150. Those on certain means-tested benefits should qualify for the discount, but you should speak to your energy supplier about this
It is worth remembering that the final cost of energy bills is still calculated on your usage and so it is important to consider where energy efficiency measures could be introduced to help prevent costly bills. Details on the Government’s announcement can be found here.
Coronavirus
The Almshouse Association continues to monitor developments and changes to legislation with regards to Coronavirus and will provide further updates when applicable.
The latest Government guidance can be found here:
England
Wales
Scotland
RECORD OF 2021/22 Policy and Governance updates:
posted 7 February 22