Keeping warm on a budget
When you’re caring for someone, winter can bring extra challenges from keeping the house warm enough to managing higher bills and making sure you both stay well. The good news is that there are practical, simple steps you can take to stay warm this winter without stretching your budget.
We’ve put together an easy-to-follow winter checklist to help carers in North Tyneside feel prepared through the colder months.
1. Warm your home wisely
Keeping your home warm doesn’t need to mean keeping every room heated all day. A few small tweaks can make a big difference. For example, heat the rooms you use the most – focusing on the living room and the bedroom you sleep in and any room used by the person you care for.
The Energy Saving Trust has some great information here on what number to put your radiator valves and just generally using your central heating in the most economical way.
Try to block out any drafts by using draft excluders at the bottom of doors, closing curtains when it gets dark and keeping furniture away from radiators so the heat can properly circulate.
Also this is a good time to get a new hot water bottle and have some thick comfy socks at the ready.
2. Check you’re getting the support you’re entitled to
Many carers miss out on support simply because they don’t realise what’s available. Here’s what to look into:
Winter Fuel Payment – If you were born before 22 September 1959 you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills for winter 2025 to 2026.
Warm Home Discount – A one-off discount applied to your electricity bill if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Attendance Allowance – This can help with extra costs if you have a disability or health condition severe enough that you need someone to help look after you.
Pension Credit – This gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income.
Carer’s Allowance – If you care for someone at least 35 hours a week and meet the criteria, you may be able to claim.
If you are not sure what applies to you and need some help, our Carer Money Matters team can check for you. Get in touch with us.
- Every day changes to keep costs down
There are some small things that could make a big difference to your energy bills. Make sure you get your boiler serviced for safety, but also so it runs more efficiently. Keep doors closed between rooms to keep the heat in. Use LED bulbs where you can. Wash clothes at 30 degrees and air dry.
4. Stay healthy
Staying well saves energy, money and stress. Carers are entitled to a free flu jab, as are people with certain health conditions. Make sure you get yours.
Also, now is the time to register as a carer with your GP so they know the responsibilities you have.
If you need support, someone to talk to or practical advice, we have a team at North Tyneside Carers’ Centre to help you. Get in touch.
0191 2496480