Propertymark is urging member agents to signpost support for people living in cold homes this winter.

Issuing an endorsement for this week’s National Energy Action’s Fuel Poverty Awareness Day, the trade body says it’s long-campaigned for incentives and realistic funding for landlords, tenants, and homeowners to upgrade properties.

And it says agents should tell local areas of how to access support schemes across the UK.

•  England – Household Support Fund (distributed through local councils)
•  Wales – Discretionary Assistance Fund
• Scotland – The Scottish Welfare Fund
• Northern Ireland – there is no current scheme to help pay household energy bills, however, the Affordable Warmth Scheme provides grants to improve energy efficiency.

People with a disability or who rely on energy to help with a health condition can join the Priority Services Register, a free and voluntary system that means the most vulnerable customers get the right support from energy suppliers. Customers should contact their energy supplier to find out more.

Those struggling with debt can contact national organisations including Citizens Advice, MoneyHelper, and National Debtline for impartial advice.