The Council has a Financial Assistance Policy (pdf document) which details the financial assistance we are able to offer. Unfortunately due to a lack of funding from central government we have, for the foreseeable future had to suspend offering discretionary grants and loans to assist with repairs to private sector housing. However we are holding a waiting list for assistance, please call the private sector housing team on 01255 686744.

However if you have a disability, mandatory grants to help provide adaptations to your home are available - for details of how to apply please see out Disabled Facilities Grants page.

We are now in the final scheme year of Warm Front. We want to ensure that all of the funding for 2012/13 is used so that as many households can benefit from living in a warmer healthier home.

The Warm Front Scheme provides heating improvements up to the value of £3,500 (or £6,000 if oil central heating is recommended) for those on certain income related benefits living in properties that are poorly insulated or do not have a working central heating system. You must own your own home or rent it from a private landlord.

Householders can also apply on line at www.warmfront.co.uk or they can phone the contact centre on 0800 316 2814.

For additional schemes and free impartial tailored advice please contact the Energy Savings Trust Advice Centre (ESTAC) on 0800 512 012 or visit their website. Your gas or electricity supplier will also be able to give advice about energy efficiency measures.

Are you a Landlord?

As a landlord you are eligible for the free home insulation offer on the energy efficiency page. You can also claim the Landlord's Energy Saving Allowance (LESA) of up to £1500 of tax relief per unit of accommodation if you install certain energy measures. To find out more visit HM Revenues & Customs website, the National Landlords Association or speak to your accountant.

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