Practice News
Household Support Fund
Warmth on Prescription
This funding supports households with patients who have long-term respiratory conditions, are facing financial difficulties, and are living in cold homes. You may be eligible for:
- Financial support towards energy bills
- An energy support pack tailored to each household, which includes: a small electric throw, LED light bulbs, radiator reflector panels, and draught-proofing tape
- Advice on reducing energy bills
How to refer:
- Health professionals can complete a referral on the patient’s behalf via the online form: Warmth on Prescription Referral
- Patients can self-refer directly to YES Energy Solutions by completing the online form and selecting "I would like to start saving energy." A team member will then contact them, or they can call YES Energy Solutions at 0800 677 1432 (Monday – Friday, 9am to 5pm) and quote "Warmth on Prescription."
Households with Individuals Using High-Energy Medical Equipment
Funding is available to support households with individuals, whether children or adults, who rely on high-energy-consuming medical equipment such as ventilators, dialysis machines, oxygen concentrators, or feeding pumps. This assistance helps those most affected by the cost of living, especially during the winter months, when fuel poverty is a significant risk.
Residents may be eligible for financial support toward heating or energy bills and can receive a one-off payment of £250. Payments will be made directly into bank accounts within 14 days of the referral.
How to refer:
- Self-referral or professional referral via an online application form complete the online application form. Applicants must provide evidence of the health condition, medical device used at home, and bank account details.
Households with Children Under 5 Years
Funding is available to assist families with children under five who are experiencing financial hardship. Support is provided as a one-off emergency payment voucher of £75 per household, redeemable at supermarkets. This will help families purchase food or essential items for children.
There is also an option to receive a financial 'health check' with a Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) advisor to help ensure families are maximizing their income and receiving support with benefits, housing, or debt-related matters.
How to refer:
- Professional referral only – referrals can be made by health visitors, local children's centres, pre-schools, nurseries, midwives, social prescribers, or the CAB using the form at: Referral Form for Families with Children
Parents with children under 5 years old
Urgent Support Information Sheet For Patients
Urgent support services available across Herefordshire and the East PCN that may be of help to those in crisis.