Supporting our residents this winter - 2024
We’re aware that some residents may be affected by changes to the Winter Fuel Payment. It doesn’t affect everyone over state pension age so please make sure you understand the changes in order to receive the benefits you’re entitled to.
The Winter Fuel Payment is a yearly payment to help people cover their bills over the winter. Until recently, the payment went to all UK households with someone over state pension age. Now it will only go to households who also receive Pension Credit or another means-tested benefit, although you will not be eligible if you only receive Housing Benefit.
There are an estimated 1,000 people in Watford who have not yet claimed the Pension Credit that they are entitled to.
Pension Credit can be backdated for up to three months – the deadline to apply for Pension Credit and still receive the Winter Fuel Payment is 21 December 2024.
Don’t miss out – speak to our Financial Inclusion team about what benefits you may be eligible for.
Other sources of support with fuel
Tony, a member of our Gateway Membership Team, reached out to this utility provider and managed to save £100 on his energy bills!
“My pension income is roughly £20 per week above the Pension Credit threshold, therefore when the changes to the Winter Fuel Payment were announced, I knew I’d miss out.
A few days later, my energy provider sent me an email about a scheme that provides pensioners with up to £200 towards their winter fuel bills. I applied immediately and after just two days I received a credit of £100 which was credited into my energy account straight away.
I then learnt that most energy providers have similar schemes – I strongly urge all pensioners in similar circumstances to me to apply as soon as possible!”
Need help filling out the form? Contact our Financial Inclusion team for help!
What to do if you have damp or mould
Problems with condensation, mould and damp can occur during the winter. We are committed to tackling any issues quickly and effectively, so if you have damp or mould in your home you should contact us straight away.
Please provide as much detail as possible when reporting an issue – such as whether you or anyone in your home is vulnerable or has any health issues. If you can also send photos these will help us to diagnose and fix any problems more quickly.
We are here to offer help and guidance in resolving these problems and we will make sure that any serious issues are followed up and dealt with as soon as possible.
Carrying out vital repairs
We know that there is always an increase in the number of repairs that are requested at this time of year. The winter weather can lead to more problems in the home, and we all tend to notice little jobs that need doing as we spend more time indoors during the colder months.
We are here to take care of any larger repairs for you – please bear in mind that it may just take us a little longer during the winter, as we have more jobs to deal with. In some situations, it can take up to five working days to complete repairs to heating and hot water systems, so please report any problems as quickly as possible so that we can get to work on them.
If you’ve reported a problem to us, please be assured that we know about it and we will carry out the works as soon as we can. You do not need to call us and you can check for updates through your online account – click here to log in now or to sign up for an account.
If you have repairs issues that you have not reported to us, please let us know. The easiest way to request repairs is through your online account. You can also report problems by calling 0800 218 2247 or emailing us at enquiries@wcht.org.uk.
Our repairs service
• Find out if your repair is covered by our service
• Check the current waiting times for different jobs
• Request a repair