We've established a scheme to help residents who are struggling to afford the extra costs.
Help with heating oil and LPG cost criteria
To be eligible for an award, you must meet all of the following criteria.
Low-income household
You, or your partner, are in receipt of a means tested benefit (Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Jobseeker's Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Council Tax Support).
If you are not in receipt of these benefits, we'll carry out financial assessment including income for household members, considering resources available to you and your household, such as money in savings or other assets.
Vulnerable household
At least one member of your household is considered vulnerable, for example due to health and disability, age, pregnancy or maternity, caring responsibilities, being a care leaver under 25, or receiving support from services.
You may also be considered vulnerable due to your wider circumstances, for example, experiencing financial difficulties, risk of abuse or neglect, or having recently moved from hospital or a care setting.
Need for provision of heating oil or LPG
You can demonstrate both that you use heating oil or LPG as the main means to heat their property and/or hot water, and you do not have sufficient stocks (less than 30% of tank capacity) of heating oil or LPG to be able to provide heating and/or hot water for the household.
We may need to ask for evidence to support your application.
Value of payment
In the majority of circumstances, we will contribute towards the increased cost of oil or LPG, up to £350, and for you to pay towards the cost of the purchase.
In exceptional circumstances, the full cost of fuel (up to 500l) will be considered.
The scheme is unable to make any payments retrospectively, that is where fuel has already been ordered and/or delivered.
Process for award
If an award is made for heating oil, you will be enrolled in the Rural Action Derbyshire Community Oil buying Scheme and a delivery of oil will be made by their provider. You'll be responsible for paying your contribution direct to the provider before delivery and we'll pay the additional amount to the provider.
Awards for LPG (tank refills and gas bottles) will be awarded by direct payment to your usual supplier.
How to apply
Although not a payment from the Derbyshire Discretionary Fund, for speed we are using the Discretionary Fund application process which is already set up and can be accessed either online or over the phone.
To apply, please make an application online via the Derbyshire Discretionary Fund online form or telephone: 01629 533399. Please clearly state that you are applying for help with heating oil or LPG when you make the application.