Get Winter Ready: Staying Warm, Safe and Supported 

Winter can be a difficult time, especially if you’re grieving. Shorter days, colder weather, and rising energy bills can add extra strain when you’re already coping with loss. Many people find themselves feeling overwhelmed. If you’re in this position, please know you don’t have to face it alone.

There is help available to make sure you stay warm, safe, and supported through the colder months. Below, you’ll find practical information and national services offering free advice and assistance to help you manage your home and energy needs this winter.

1. Citizens Advice

Free guidance on energy bills, benefits, housing, and debt
Citizens Advice offers confidential help to ensure you’re getting all the support you’re entitled to; from benefits and housing advice to managing energy bills or debt. 

• Call 0800 144 8848 (England) or 0800 702 2020 (Wales) — free from mobiles and landlines. 

•  Visit citizensadvice.org.uk 

2. Better Housing, Better Health

Helping people live in warmer, safer homes
This service offers advice on improving energy efficiency, accessing grants, and finding support if your home isn’t meeting your needs 

• Call 0800 107 0044 

• Visit bhbh.org.uk 

3. Priority Services Register (PSR)

Free extra help with your energy supply
There are many ways you can be eligible to register PSR, including if you temporarily need extra support following a bereavement. 

Benefits include: 

• Priority assistance during power cuts 

• Accessible communication options 

• Free annual gas safety checks 

You can find information about signing up through our website or visit thepsr.co.uk. Help us to improve our service by letting us know if you sign up.  

4. Fuel Bank Foundation

Emergency fuel vouchers for those in urgent need
If you’ve run out of gas or electricity credit and use a prepayment meter, the Fuel Bank Foundation can help with emergency vouchers.
Support is provided through local partners such as food banks and housing services. 

• Visit fuelbankfoundation.org 

5. NEA – Warm Homes, Healthy Futures

Energy efficiency advice and health support
National Energy Action (NEA) helps people improve home heating and energy efficiency. They also offer benefit checks and work with health and social care professionals to support people whose health may be affected by cold homes. 

Ask your GP, social worker, or local council if they’re part of the NEA referral network. 

6. YMCA – Cost of Living Support

Practical help with bills and energy advice
YMCA centres across England, Scotland, and Wales offer tailored cost-of-living and energy support. 

• Contact your local YMCA to check availability in your area. 

You’re not alone 

Grief can make everyday tasks feel much harder. Please know that you’re not alone and support is available. Whether you need help keeping warm, managing bills, or simply someone to talk to, there are people and organisations ready to help.