New grant to help polio survivors with energy bills

As households brace for an unexpected rise in energy costs in the new year, the British Polio Fellowship (BPF) has announced the launch of its new annual Energy Support Grant.

Millions of homes across England, Wales, and Scotland are set to experience slightly higher energy bills this winter following Ofgem’s confirmation of its latest price cap. The new cap, representing a 0.2% increase from current levels, will take effect in January 2026 and applies to customers on variable tariffs.

In January, BPF will replace its existing Heating Grant with a new, year-round Energy Support Grant. This updated scheme acknowledges that the energy challenges faced by polio survivors are not limited to the colder months.

"The grant is designed to help polio members manage the costs of maintaining a safe and comfortable home temperature, whether that means heating in winter or cooling in summer," explained Kripen Dhrona, Chief Executive Officer.

Application forms and eligibility criteria for the grant will be available from Monday 5 January 2026.

"To learn more, contact our Support Services team on 0800 043 1935 or visit the Support Services section on the BPF website" Dhrona added.

"The increase in the energy price cap has taken many households by surprise. The Energy Support Grant will go some way to help meeting those rising costs."

While bills have shown some stability in recent months, gas and electricity costs remain high, and the recent drop in temperatures has brought energy affordability into sharp focus.

The latest adjustment is largely driven by rising electricity unit rates, partially offset by a slight reduction in gas prices. As a result, households with higher electricity usage are likely to feel the greatest impact.

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