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, Jane Hutt, 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.
