TIME is running out to claim a heating discount which could save bill payers £140 off their winter fuel.

The Government's Warm Home Discount Scheme provides a one off discount to eligible consumers.

People may be eligible if their electricity supplier is part of the scheme, their name, or partner's name is on the bill and they receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, even if receiving Savings Credits as well.

Others may also be eligible, because some suppliers offer the discount to a broader group of customers who are vulnerable to falling into fuel poverty.

Cllr Eamonn O’Brien, cabinet member for finance and housing, said, "It is a modern day scandal that so many people are in fuel poverty and struggle to heat their homes. We know that having a safe, decent and warm home is a huge factor in the health and wellbeing of our residents, so we welcome any attempt to offer relief."

Bury Council and Six Town Housing are encouraging anyone in the borough who may be struggling to pay bills to check their eligibility.

Sharon McCambridge, chief executive at Six Town Housing, which manage homes on behalf of Bury Council, is urging people to act quickly to check if they can claim the discount.

He said: "We manage homes for some of the most vulnerable people in Bury and know that some have difficulties covering the high cost of energy bills. No one should suffer the cold, so we urge them to check if they can claim this discount.

"The deadline for numerous energy companies is at the end of this month, so any residents in Bury who think they may be eligible should contact their energy suppliers straight away to find out - even if they have received the discount in previous years as it needs to be a new application."

Visit gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme to find out more and select the correct energy supplier from the list. This redirects to the supplier's webpage where an online application form can be filled in to apply for the scheme.