CHARITIES in Somerset could benefit from millions of pounds from the National Grid to help tackle fuel poverty this winter. 

A £2.5million fund will help local groups in Weston and the surrounding areas to support vulnerable people during the soaring cost-of-living crisis. 

The Fuel Bank Foundation - a national fuel poverty charity - reported a 75 per cent increase in the number of people needing its support in the last 12 months.

Now grants of up to £10,000 could be awarded to charitable organisations this winter. 

“Every family deserves to have a warm home – and tackling fuel poverty is a vital and pressing priority for us this winter," corporate director at National Grid, Alison Sleightholm, said.

"Over the past two years, we have worked with partners to deliver £20 million of direct savings for over 40,000 customers struggling to pay their bills, and the Community Matters Fund, provided entirely by the company’s shareholders, promises to offer further support to our communities.

“We are looking to support, and partner with, community groups and organisations to achieve positive change, and we welcome funding applications from diverse community groups and organisations.”

Supported projects include setting up 'warm banks', discount scheme advice and energy efficiency guidance. 

Applications close on October 31.

To apply, visit www.nationalgrid.co.uk/community-matters-fund.