Saturday 7 August 2021

East Riding Council says it’s doing everything possible to help residents find the best energy prices after Government regulator Ofgem announced another increase in prices as costs soar. The second rise in the energy price cap could see an annual increase for householders of £139. Officials told Beverley FM that they’ll receive another round of bids from suppliers through their YORSwitch programme this October and urge residents to sign up now. Over the last 8 years the scheme has helped 37,000 East Yorkshire households switch energy tariffs with savings exceeding £7.5 million. They added if anyone is struggling financially, they may qualify for an emergency assistance grant.

An East Riding of Yorkshire Council spokesperson said: ” Residents on a standard variable tariff with a typical consumption could see an annual increase from £1,138 to £1,277. The council offers a collective energy switching service, YORSwitch, that will protect residents from the worst of these price increases.” Residents can sign up at www.eastriding.gov.uk/YORSwitch, or by phone: 01482 393939. You’ll need a copy of your latest energy bill to hand. It’s free and takes about five minutes to complete, and there is no obligation to switch. The council added: “There will be a reverse auction on 12 October 2021 where we invite pre-vetted energy suppliers to compete for residents’ custom. From 25 October residents will receive a personal offer and will have until 23 November 2021 to make a decision. Residents who have had an interruption in their normal income and have insufficient funds to afford gas/electricity can apply for an emergency assistance grant. Visit https://www.eastriding.gov.uk/living/emergency-assistance/ for more information. 

Police have appointed a new lead for community policing in our area. Sergeant Neil Taylor will be based out of Beverley Police Station and brings a wealth of experience. He told us he’s delighted to be part of a really great Neighbourhood Policing Team and says he’ll be working with local business and residents to keep this area a safe and friendly place to live and work. Full story here

If you’re looking for fun and active ways of keeping children entertained during the summer holidays look no further than the Active East Riding Schools Out website – at www.ActiveEastriding.co.uk   Events include art and drama workshops, football and swimming courses as well as a butterfly safari. More details here