Bedford’s mayor has responded to local residents who feel they do not need the incoming energy rebate, suggesting they make a donation to a local charity.
With most households beginning to receive the £400 energy rebate this month, these government payments are not means tested and there is no option to opt-out.
Mayor Dave Hodgson has confirmed that a number of residents do not feel they need the energy rebate and have contacted the Council to ask how they can make a donation and help others.
He has suggested that those who can make a donation consider supporting Bedford Foodbank to help those less fortunate.
Mayor Dave Hodgson said: “The cost of living crisis is impacting so many of our community, so it is heartening to hear from those that are in a position to help others.
“Bedford Foodbank is run by local people for local people and relies on the support of the community to ensure that it can continue to stop the local residents it meets from going hungry.”
Sarah Broughton, Project Manager at Bedford Foodbank said that the charity feeds over 1,500 a month in Bedford Borough.
“Lots of households are going to find this winter tough, with the cost of living increasing,” she said.
“By making a small donation of food or cash to Bedford Foodbank you can make a massive difference to many families.”
You can find out about the different ways people can make a donation or offer help to Bedford Foodbank at Bedford.foodbank.org.uk.
The national fuel poverty charity National Energy Action (NEA) is also asking for donations from those that can afford to. You can find more details here.
