Consumer Advisory for Oil‑Heated Homes Across the UK
What’s happening?
The Government has recently announced new support for vulnerable and low income households that rely on heating oil.
UKIFDA has been working with government departments across England, Scotland and Wales, and have shared the following information to help customers understand what support is available and how to access it.
Below is an overview of the funding being provided in each nation.
England – Support Delivered Through Local Councils
In England, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has allocated £27 million to help vulnerable households using heating oil. This funding started on 1st April 2026 and will be distributed through local authorities via the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF). Each authority will manage its own scheme.
This means:
- Eligibility criteria will vary by council
- The level of support may differ
- Councils will decide how and when payments are made
If you think you may qualify, the best first step is to check your local council’s website for updates on how their scheme will operate.
For independent guidance, Citizens Advice can also help explain local support options and how to access them.
Scotland – National Scheme Delivered Through Advice Direct Scotland (ADS)
The Scottish Government has increased funding availability and introduced a nationally coordinated scheme. Support is being administered by Advice Direct Scotland (ADS).
The Scottish scheme aims to:
- Provide a consistent scheme across the country
- Target the most vulnerable households
- Ensure funding is used specifically for heating oil support
Click here to find out more and apply
Wales – Support Through the Discretionary Assistance Fund (DAF)
In Wales, the Government is using the existing Discretionary Assistance Fund (DAF) to support households facing financial hardship, including those using heating oil.
This scheme can help if you:
- Are experiencing extreme financial hardship
- Have lost your job
- Have applied for benefits and are waiting for your first payment
Anyone aged 16 or over living in Wales who is experiencing an unexpected financial crisis can apply.
Click here to find out more and apply
Citizens Advice Cymru can also provide guidance on applying for the DAF and other local support.
Important information from UKIFDA
- Contact your local authority — not your local heating oil distributor or UKIFDA — for all information and applications.
- Each local authority decides who can apply, what support looks like, and how the scheme is run.
- Be alert to scams.
- Councils will not cold‑call asking for bank details or payments.
- Do not share personal or banking information with anyone claiming to offer early access to funding.
What to do next
- Visit your local authority’s website or contact them directly if you think you may be eligible for support.
UKIFDA will continue working with the Government to ensure rural and off‑grid households receive clear, fair access to support.
