The money will be paid by Bath & North East Somerset Council using funding from the Government’s Household Support Fund, which helps people most in need with significantly rising living costs.

From today (July 25th), residents in receipt of Pension Credit will receive a letter from the council containing a unique reference number and details of how to apply.

Once applications have been approved by the council, payments will be made directly into residents’ bank accounts.

People who are unable to complete the application online, or who need help with their application, can email the Benefits Team on [email protected] or telephone 01225 477777.

Residents are advised that they will not be asked for any debit or credit card details to receive the money. Anyone who has concerns about providing their bank details online can contact the Benefits Team for guidance.

Cllr Dine Romero, cabinet member for Children and Young People, and Communities, said: “Recent increases in living costs have affected many of our residents, especially older people on low incomes who are really struggling to pay their energy bills. We are pleased to be able to offer these one-off payments which we hope will go some way to helping people manage their finances in these difficult times. I’d urge anyone who is eligible for the payment to apply as soon as possible so we can get the money to you. I would also like to remind people about our Welfare Support Scheme which provides short-term emergency help with living costs.”

Find out more about the scheme at https://beta.bathnes.gov.uk/apply-welfare-support

Applications can be made securely online here https://beta.bathnes.gov.uk/apply-pension-credit-energy-support using the unique reference number and entering bank account details.