March 18, 2026 - 210 views
Households across North Wales are set to receive extra support as the rising cost of heating oil continues to put pressure on family finances.
The Welsh Government has announced increased funding through the Discretionary Assistance Fund (DAF), aimed at helping people in financial crisis who rely on off-grid fuel such as heating oil.
The maximum payment available for heating oil has been temporarily raised from £500 to £750, while households will now be able to apply twice within a 12-month period, instead of once, reflecting the ongoing strain many are facing.
For many communities in North Wales, particularly in rural and remote areas, this support is seen as vital. Unlike larger towns and cities, thousands of homes are not connected to the mains gas network, meaning heating oil is often the only option for keeping homes warm and providing hot water.
With global uncertainty — including conflict in the Middle East — continuing to affect oil prices, families in these areas can be especially vulnerable to sudden price spikes. Bulk oil purchases often require large upfront payments, leaving some households struggling to afford deliveries, particularly during colder months.
Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Jane Hutt said the changes recognise the challenges facing households reliant on oil.
She said many people are continuing to feel the impact of the cost-of-living crisis, particularly those off the gas grid, and the increased support will provide immediate help to those most in need.
The DAF scheme is open to anyone over the age of 16 living in Wales who is experiencing financial hardship, with applications processed through local authority partners.
In North Wales, where older housing stock and exposed rural locations can make homes harder — and more expensive — to heat, the rising cost of oil has been a growing concern for several winters.
Community groups have previously warned that some households are forced to ration heating, delay oil deliveries or cut back on essentials to cope with costs.
The increased funding is expected to provide some relief, but it also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by off-grid communities — where access to affordable, reliable heating remains a key issue.
As energy prices continue to fluctuate, the hope is that measures like this will help ensure families across North Wales can stay warm, particularly those living in areas where heating choices are limited.
