Struggling households are set to receive a share of more than £50million in emergency support, as ministers move to ease the burden of high energy costs on some of the most vulnerable.

The funding is aimed at homes not connected to the gas grid – many of them in rural areas – where residents have seen sharp increases in heating oil prices due to the Middle East crisis. Officials said the cash will be distributed to help those struggling with bills, with a focus on low-income and vulnerable households who rely on alternative fuels such as heating oil, LPG, and solid fuels.

The move builds on a series of government interventions designed to cushion households from the energy crisis, particularly those who have historically missed out on mainstream support schemes tied to gas and electricity.

In previous announcements, ministers have acknowledged that off-grid homes can be “particularly exposed” to volatile global fuel prices, with limited ability to spread costs through monthly direct debits.

The latest £50million package will be channelled through existing local authority support mechanisms, allowing councils to target those most in need, including pensioners and families on lower incomes.

It follows earlier schemes such as the Alternative Fuel Payment, which provided direct support to households not using mains gas, as well as the Household Support Fund – a pot of money given to councils to help residents with essentials including energy bills.

Campaigners have long argued that rural and off-grid households face a “double disadvantage”, paying more for energy while often living in less energy-efficient homes. The Middle East crisis has fuelled the impact on struggling households. Ministers say the new funding is designed to plug gaps and provide rapid relief.

A government spokesperson said support is being “targeted at those who need it most”, adding that help for off-grid users remains a priority alongside wider cost-of-living measures

The £50million support is being distributed through existing local schemes, which means the route to getting help depends on where you live.

How the support is claimed

The funding is expected to be channelled via the Household Support Fund, which is run local councils.

Search your council’s website for “Household Support Fund” or “energy support”.