Dorset Council welcomes Government support to help households with oil heating

Dorset Council has welcomed additional Government funding to support low‑income households across the county who rely on heating oil and are facing acute financial pressure.

Dorset Council will receive £494,167 as part of this additional Government support. The council is moving quickly to put the necessary arrangements in place, with payments expected to begin later this week for those in urgent need.

Councillor Ryan Hope, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Customer, Culture and Community Engagement, said:

“ Many households are facing sudden and significant increases in the cost of heating oil, and for some this is creating immediate financial hardship.   I don’t want to see residents losing access to heating and hot water, particularly at this time of year. I’m pleased that this funding will allow us to provide support quickly to those who need it most.”

Around 8.7% of households in Dorset (approximately 14,730 homes) rely on heating oil, compared to 3.6% nationally. In some rural parts of the county, particularly in North and West Dorset, this rises to between 33% and 50% of households.

The funding forms part of the Government’s wider support for vulnerable households and will be delivered locally by Dorset Council through its crisis support arrangements.

Residents who are struggling with heating oil costs and are concerned about maintaining heating or hot water are encouraged to contact Dorset Council for advice and support.

For further information and to register for updates  visit our help for households with oil heating page