Written by
Jenna Culy
on 16 Mar 2026
and updated on
16 Apr 2026
Categorised in
News
Update: 2nd April 2026
The UK Government has now made funding available through the 'Crisis and Resilience Fund,' with local councils outlining how residents can apply for heating oil support.
To find out what's available in your area, visit your local authority's website and search for 'Crisis and Resilience Fund,' where you'll find details on energy and heating oil support.
The UK Government has introduced new financial support for vulnerable households that depend on heating oil, providing relief for some rural and off-grid communities facing increasing energy costs. The price of kerosene - the fuel used for heating oil - has been especially affected by the conflict in the Middle East and has risen faster than other fuels such as petrol and gas.
During a press conference earlier today, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer confirmed a £53 million support package for some households facing higher costs.
Sir Keir Starmer, Prime Minister
The government has confirmed £53 million in funding to support households facing high heating oil costs.
The support will be targeted at low-income households in rural communities affected by the recent surge in energy prices.
Funding will be allocated across the UK as follows:
The funding is intended to support vulnerable homes not connected to the gas grid, many of which rely on heating oil for both home heating and hot water.
In England, the funding will be distributed by local authorities through the Crisis and Resilience Fund, which comes into effect on the 1st of April after the Household Support Fund finishes on the 31st March.
In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the funding will be allocated to devolved governments, it will be used to support vulnerable households in off-grid communities.
In order to receive support, local authorities will need to be contacted directly -not a local heating oil distributor or UKIFDA - for all information and applications. Local councils will be able to decide who can apply, what support will look like, and how the scheme is run.
Councils will not cold-call or ask for bank details or payments.
Keeping up to date will help ensure you don't miss any available support. For any questions about eligbility, please contact your local authorities.
Plan ahead for your heating oil supply:
Heating oil prices can move in response to global energy market changes. Planning deliveries in advance and keeping an eye on tank levels can help avoid last-minute orders.
Monitor market updates:
Energy markets can change quickly due to international events. We will continue sharing updates so customers understand how market changes may affect heating oil prices.
As this support is expected to be highly targeted, we recommend not waiting if your oil tank is running low, as you may not qualify and could risk running out. Ordering in good time can help avoid delays and ensure you have enough fuel to keep your home warm.
Coverage is improving across the country, allowing more delivery options and helping households access heating oil when they need it. Planning ahead and checking local delivery availability can help you stay prepared, particularly during periods of high demand.