Find out what help is available if you’re finding everyday living costs more challenging after a stroke.
Help with energy costs
If you’re struggling to pay energy bills (gas and electricity), contact your supplier as soon as possible. They can discuss options such as giving you more time to pay.
Many energy suppliers also have support funds their customers can apply to, if they’re finding it hard to pay their energy debts or are experiencing hardship. Contact yours to find out if you might be eligible for a grant or other support.
Winter Fuel Payments 2026
The government runs a scheme to help people over the State Pension age pay their energy bills in winter.
If you were born before 28 June 1960 and have an annual taxable income of under £35,000, you will be eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment. You should get a letter in October or November 2026, telling you how much you'll get. Payment amounts depend on your age and who you live with. Payments are expected to go out in November or December 2026.
How will payment be made?
- The amount should be paid automatically into your account. If your income is over £35,000, your payment will be recovered later through the tax system.
- Visit the government website for more information. To report a change in circumstances or a missing payment, call 0800 731 0160.
- In Scotland, the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment is replacing the Winter Fuel Payment.
Cold Weather Payments 2026
If you’re not the right age to receive a Winter Fuel Payment, you may be able to receive Cold Weather Payments instead. These payments are made when there’s a seven-day period of very cold weather. You will only get them if you’re receiving certain benefits. Check if you are eligible via the government website.
If you qualify, you’ll receive Cold Weather Payments automatically in the same way you receive your other benefits. If you think you should have received a Cold Weather Payment but you have not, contact the Pension Service Centre or your local Jobcentre Plus (Jobs and Benefits office in Northern Ireland). If you are on Universal Credit, contact the Universal Credit helpline.
If you live in Scotland, you will not get Cold Weather Payments. Instead, Winter Heating Payments will be paid automatically to those on certain benefits.
Help with water bills
Water companies can offer support to customers who are struggling to pay their water bills. Contact yours to see if they have a hardship fund, social tariff or other support. The WaterSure Scheme caps your bills if you’re on benefits and meet certain other criteria.
Help with the cost of living
Visit the government website for a list of the latest help available with the cost of living including bills, childcare, housing and travel. The website also has advice on where to get support if money problems are affecting your mental health.
If worrying about money is affecting your wellbeing and you want to talk about it, call our Stroke Support Helpline for more sources of support.
Food banks
Food banks may be able to help if you cannot afford to buy the food you need. You often need to be referred (sent) to a food bank by a professional such as a Citizens Advice service, your GP or a social worker. Your local council can give information about food banks and other crisis support in your local area. Citizens Advice has more information on using a food bank.
Some areas also have ‘community fridge’ schemes run by volunteers, where you can drop in and collect food which has been donated. Find out if there is one near you.
Toiletries and period products
Food banks often supply toiletries and period products. Schools and colleges should also provide free period products to students.
We have information on what to do if you need emotional support in a financial crisis.