Message from Cllr. Diana Garrod regarding heating oil
I am aware that some rural households are experiencing difficulties with heating oil at the moment, particularly around price and supply issues. As heating oil is an unregulated private market, the Council (BDC) isn’t able to intervene directly in individual contracts or pricing decisions made by suppliers. However, there may be a few practical routes of support and advice we can signpost residents to:
Local oil buying groups:
As you most likely know, many rural areas benefit from collective oil‑buying schemes, which can help secure more stable prices. However, it is important to note that other suppliers will be facing similar decision-making challenges and complexities, which leads to unpredictability in the market.
Below are some of the scheme we’re aware of.
- The Rural Community Council of Essex on 01603 881888
- The Oil Club www.oil-club.com
- The Oil Lady on 01371 238080 www.theoillady.co.uk
Wider Cost of Living support:
See the Cost of Living Directory to find support locally
- Warm Spaces:- There are number of ‘Warm Spaces’ across the district which are all listed on Essex Frontline. Search “warm space” and result will show with a little tea cup. I’ve also attached a printable copy of the warm spaces for those who struggle with the internet.
- Essential Living Fund:- This fund, held by Southend Council, may be able to assist with vouchers or money towards fuel costs for those most in need.
- Support with benefit checks, debt, financial inclusion, grant applications:-
Energy and benefits advice and support service to help with Fuel Poverty
As mentioned, because heating oil is unregulated and the unprecedented situation, prices are changing daily which makes it very difficult to advise but hopefully some of this information will be useful.
Kind regards
Cllr. Diana Garrod
Bumpstead Ward
