Tewkesbury-based housing association Bromford is providing an update on an initiative designed to assist its customers during the ongoing cost-of-living challenges.

The organisation's registration with the HACT Fuel Fund aims to support Bromford customers in managing rising energy costs by providing vouchers for fuel expenses.

HACT (Housing Associations' Charitable Trust) is an organisation dedicated to driving positive change within the UK's social housing sector. They work with housing associations and other stakeholders to develop and deliver solutions that enhance the lives of social housing customers.

In this instance, HACT is managing the distribution of fuel funding vouchers, ensuring that Bromford's eligible customers receive the financial support they need.

Any Bromford customer with a prepayment meter who is struggling with fuel costs and is at risk of self-disconnection is eligible to receive these vouchers. Customers cannot apply directly, instead Bromford's neighbourhood coaches, who work closely with its customers, identify those who may benefit from the vouchers. When a potential recipient is identified, the neighbourhood coach makes a referral to Bromford's co-ordinator team, who then submit an application to HACT. Once approved, Bromford's co-ordinator team sends the vouchers directly to the customers.

Each eligible customer can receive up to six £49 vouchers to help cover fuel costs over the 12-month duration of the fuel fund, which is set to end in October 2024. These vouchers can be redeemed exclusively through PayPoint.

While British Gas does not accept PayPoint vouchers, customers facing financial difficulties and registered with British Gas may be eligible for a unique fund. Up to four vouchers, each worth £50, can be claimed and exchanged for cash at a PayPoint store. This fund ended on August 14, 2024, providing £12,000 to Bromford customers.

A total of 344 households received support through the HACT and British Gas funds, with £83,496 distributed to Bromford customers.

By registering for this fund, Bromford aims to provide financial relief, helping its customers manage household budgets more effectively during these difficult times.

Bromford believes these vouchers will make a significant difference for many of its customers and will continue to seek out opportunities to support its customers and communities to thrive.