As the temperatures drop and the heating goes on, many of us start thinking about how to keep our homes warm without sending our energy bills soaring.
But for some people, it's more than a question of turning down the thermostat or putting on an extra jumper. Older residents, people living with health conditions, families on low incomes and those in poorly insulated homes can face some very difficult choices during the colder months.
Nobody should have to struggle in a cold home because they don't know where to turn for help.
There are organisations across Epsom, Ewell, Ashtead, Banstead and the wider Surrey area offering practical advice, financial guidance and support. Here's where to start.
If you're worried about your energy bills, struggling to keep up with payments or simply want to understand how to use less energy, Citizens Advice Epsom & Ewell offers free appointments with specialist energy advisers.
They can help with:
Finding ways to reduce energy use at home.
Checking whether you're entitled to grants or benefits.
Understanding bills and contacting energy suppliers.
Exploring switching providers or tariffs.
Checking eligibility for the Warm Home Discount.
Getting help with energy debt and crisis situations.
Understanding smart meters and energy-efficient appliances.
There are also outreach sessions at local community venues, including Epsom Library, Bourne Hall Library and St Barnabas Church.
Contact: 01372 300420 or energy1@caee.org.uk
Find out more: https://caee.org.uk/energy-advice/
Surrey Community Action runs the Warmth Matters project, offering impartial energy advice to people struggling with fuel costs or living in cold, draughty homes.
The team can help people understand their bills, explore ways to reduce energy use, look at switching suppliers, deal with energy debt and find out about grants and schemes that may be available.
They can also provide advice about damp and mould and help eligible residents register for their energy supplier's Priority Services Register.
The service includes a friendly telephone advice line every Monday, 10am–2pm.
Call 01483 447110.
Find out more: https://surreyca.org.uk/strengthening-communities/warmth-matters/
Age Concern Epsom & Ewell offers information and advice to older residents, including guidance on benefit entitlement and finding appropriate support.
If you or someone you know is struggling financially, it may be worth checking whether they're receiving all the benefits and assistance they're entitled to.
Call 01372 732456.
The organisation is based at The Old Town Hall, The Parade, Epsom, and welcomes personal callers for information and advice Monday to Friday, 9.30am–1pm.
Website: https://ageconcernepsom.org.uk/our-services/information-and-advice/
The council's Home Improvement Agency can help older people, residents on low incomes or benefits, and people with disabilities to remain safe and independent in their own homes.
Its advice covers home adaptations, repairs and energy efficiency, including information about grants that may help make a property warmer and more energy efficient.
There is also a Handy Person Service for eligible residents over 65 or those with disabilities who receive a means-tested benefit.
Email: HIA@epsom-ewell.gov.uk
Find out more: https://www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/home-improvement-agency
There may be grants available to help eligible households improve the energy efficiency of their homes.
The government's Warm Homes: Local Grant scheme can provide support towards measures such as insulation, solar panels, smart heating controls and low-carbon heating.
Eligibility depends on factors including household income, benefits, property location and the home's Energy Performance Certificate rating.
If you're a homeowner or private tenant, it's worth checking whether you qualify. A landlord may also need to contribute towards certain improvements.
Find out more through Citizens Advice or the government's energy-efficiency guidance:
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/energy/energy-supply/save-energy-at-home/get-help-with-the-cost-of-energy-efficiency/
Not everyone has a warm home to retreat to, and spending time somewhere welcoming can make a real difference.
Warm Welcome venues provide places where people can enjoy a warm environment, a hot drink, social activities and, in some cases, information and advice.
Epsom & Ewell Borough Council has previously listed venues including local libraries, churches and community centres.
The council's online list currently shows last winter's dates, so check for updated opening arrangements for 2026/27 before visiting.
Find out more: https://epsom-ewell.gov.uk/warm-welcome
If you're worried about heating costs, struggling to top up a prepayment meter or finding it difficult to keep your home warm, please don't wait until things become unmanageable.
A conversation with one of the organisations above could help you find financial support, practical advice or assistance with making your home more energy efficient.
And if you have an older neighbour, relative or friend who might be struggling, why not check in on them? Sometimes a little help finding the right organisation can make all the difference.
Let's look after ourselves and each other this winter.
