What is the Rebate?
Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced a series of additional support measures last month to tackle the UK’s cost of living crisis. Soaring inflation and energy prices have hit households hard. The original plan, announced earlier this year, was for households to receive a £200 discount on their energy bills in October, with the Government meeting the costs. Originally, this would have had to have been repaid, however, the Chancellor announced that the discount would be increased to £400 and will no longer have to be paid back.
Direct debit and credit customers will have the money credited to their account, while customers with pre-payment meters will have the money applied to their meter or paid via a voucher.
What is #DonateTheRebate?
As this new benefit is not means-tested, many people who find themselves in a fortunate position- or less impacted by the cost of living crisis- have expressed interest in donating their rebate to a charity. For example, we as a charity received several donations from the recent Council Tax rebate, which went towards our cause in helping to end youth homelessness. It’s a way of giving back to the communities around us that are facing hardships.
At St Basils, we know that most people are feeling the pinch with the cost-of-living crisis. In fact, many people are not only feeling the pinch- they’re devastated by the impact it’s had on their lives. The cost-of-living crisis impacts the whole country- and disproportionately affects those who are already vulnerable, including the young people we home every single night.
We would never make the ask to those who are vulnerable, or who would benefit greatly from this rebate. However, if you do feel you’re in a position to donate your rebate, why not think of St Basils?
Your £400 rebate could pay for the following:
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200 Nights of safety – £5 a day. That’s what we’re short of to support each young person out of homelessness and provide emergency/ long term accommodation.
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13 sets of clothing for young homeless people, enabling them to attend interviews and get them work ready.
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8 sets of household essentials, which helps our young people settle in to their new accommodation.
To donate all or part of your rebate, click here.