Pensioners given free slow cookers and air fryers to cut fuel costs

North Lincolnshire pensioners are to be given free air fryers and slow cookers to help lower their energy bills. 

The council will distribute one air fryer or slow cooker per household in the new year, along with access to free healthy cooking lessons, following government cuts to the winter fuel payment. 

Now, only those receiving pension credit or universal credit are entitled to the allowance, leaving around 10 million older people without their usual heating support this winter. 

Pensioners on council tax relief, but who don’t qualify for the winter fuel payment, will also get £200 from North Lincolnshire council. Older people don’t need to apply for this help. If they qualify, they’ll get a letter that they can use to claim the £200 at any post office. 

Councillor Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: "We know many pensioners are struggling and relied on the winter fuel payment at the time of year when energy bills soar.  

“The £200 will go some way to help but we want to do more, to help older people eat healthily and at the same time reduce their energy bills by using things like air fryers.” 

The support is being funded by the government’s household support fund (HSF).  

What is the household support fund? 

Local councils in England have each been given money under the government’s HSF to help those who need urgent support with essentials, like energy bills. 

Councils decide who qualifies and how the money is distributed, often as cash payments or vouchers. 

Like North Lincolnshire, Manchester City council is providing vulnerable pensioners who don’t qualify for winter fuel payments with a one-off payment to help with fuel costs.  

Almost 5,000 pensioners who get council tax support or housing benefit , will receive payments of up to £200.  

How to apply for HSF  

The HSF is open for applications now. 

You can get in touch with your local council to apply for the funding. Details of local councils can be found on the government website. 

How to apply for council tax support 

If you're finding it hard to pay your council tax, you can apply for a reduction (sometimes called council tax support).  

If you're eligible, you'll get a discount on your bill, which could be up to 100%.