Children across Wales are staying warm at home this winter,
thanks to Welsh Government funded fuel vouchers to tackle
household energy costs.
Ahead of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty on
17th October, the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice met with
the Fuel Bank Foundation to see how Welsh Government funding is
helping households grappling with soaring energy costs.
Since 2022, the Welsh Government has invested over £6.9 million
in the Foundation's vital work across Wales, with another
£600,000 committed for 2025-26.
Fuel Bank Foundation Chief Executive, Matthew
Cole, said: "We are very proud to have partnered with
the Welsh Government for several years now. During this time, we
have been able to provide emergency fuel top-ups to more than
200,000 people across Wales - nearly 90,000 of whom were
children. The Welsh Government's support has also enabled us to
provide deliveries of fuel to over 500 households who live off
the gas grid and to deliver more than 3,000 heated throws to
people who struggle to heat their entire home. We could not be
prouder of what we have achieved together and the difference we
have made for people in Wales."
This support forms part of the Welsh Government's strategy to
tackle poverty. Between 2022 and 2026, it has invested over £7
billion to support households through programmes to alleviate
financial pressures, help maximise income and to help keep more
money in people's pockets. Since 2019, over £27 million has been
directed to community food organisations to address food
insecurity.
The Warm Homes Nest scheme continues this commitment with more
than £30 million allocated this year to help low-income
households improve their energy efficiency and access affordable
heating solutions.
The Welsh Government is also improving how people access support
through the Welsh Benefits Charter. All 22 local authorities are
progressing the implementation of the Charter's person-centred
commitments. By streamlining their processes for claiming Welsh
benefits, local authorities are making it easier for people to
access their entitlements, and they are ensuring everyone seeking
support is treated with understanding and respect.
Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, , said: "Global factors
like rising energy costs have placed enormous pressure on
households. We remain determined to ensure every child in Wales
can grow up free from poverty, with dignity and genuine
opportunities for their future.
"I'm proud of the progress we're making together with our
partners, and we're committed to building on this success to
create a Wales where every family can thrive."
The Welsh Government encourages people to call Advicelink Cymru
on 0808 250 5700 to check what support they're entitled to.
