Millions of people on these benefits could get energy bill help before new price cap - full list

People across the country are still feeling the pinch on their wallets from the cost of living.

One key cause of concern for millions in the UK is the cost of their energy bills. This is despite the fact that Ofgem confirmed the energy price cap will drop to £1,568 from July 1 - an overall £122 price drop compared to the current price cap of £1,690.

Fortunately, there are a multitude of ways you can mitigate the financial strain of energy bills. People claiming certain benefits could be eligible for extra support with their bills, whether it be through financial payments or help with debt.

If you're struggling to pay for your energy bills, the government recommends that your first point of call should be to contact Citizens Advice. This can be reached on 0808 223 1133.

The majority of help for those claiming benefits comes from support for heating during the colder months of this year. This can include Cold Weather Payments and Winter fuel payments.

The winter fuel payment is available to those claiming the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit or potentially another benefit if their home has high energy costs. Meanwhile, Cold Weather Payments are available for those claiming the following:

• Pension Credit

• Income Support

• income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance

• income-related Employment and Support Allowance

• Universal Credit

• support for mortgage interest

You may also be able to pay off your energy debt via your benefits with the Fuel Direct Scheme. The scheme allows a fixed amount to be automatically taken from your benefit payments to help pay what you owe.

In order to be eligible for the Fuel Direct Scheme you need to be claiming one of the following benefits:

• Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance

• Income Support

• income-related Employment and Support Allowance

• Pension Credit

• Universal Credit

It's important to note that those claiming Universal Credit and working will only be eligible if their earnings are less than their work allowance.

Help from local council

Different help may be available depending on the area you live, for example, some councils are offering vouchers to help with bills through the Household Support Fund. However, the fund is being used differently by different councils, therefore you will need to contact them yourselves to see what support they are offering through the fund and if you are eligible - not all councils require you to be claiming benefits to receive help.