Households in Monmouthshire are being encouraged to apply for funding for free energy saving improvements to their homes.

Recent changes to the eligibility for the Energy Company grant means the funding will now be available to a greater number of homes across the county.

The changes  mean people no longer need to be in receipt of benefits, but do need to be on a low income. Anyone wishing to apply must also either live in a home that is expensive to heat or be vulnerable to the effects of living in a cold home.

Those deemed vulnerable because of living in a cold home may have numerous medical conditions or a disability. Anyone under the age of five or over 60 are also deemed vulnerable to the effects of a cold home.

The income assessments are made dependant on how households are made up. A single adult must not be earning over £9,300 to be considered for the funding, whereas a family of two adults and two children must not earn over £26,800. These figures are taken after deducting housing costs such as mortgage, rent and council tax.

Along with loft insulation top-ups and cavity wall insulation, those eligible may be able to have a broken or old inefficient boiler replaced with a new more efficient one.

To apply, or check eligibility please contact Monmouthshire County Council’s charity partner, the Energy Advice Centre, in Newport on freephone 0800 6226110.

If eligible, their advisors will arrange for a free, no-obligation survey. More details of the scheme and the eligibility criteria can be found on www.sewenergy.org.uk.

The scheme is open to private homeowners and those renting privately. The grants are subject to survey, eligibility and funding availability, with the final decision resting with the energy companies supporting the scheme.