The Warm Homes Fund (WHF) was a national programme established by National Grid to help households affected by fuel poverty access safer, more efficient heating systems.

The scheme focused heavily on supporting homes without existing central heating and aimed to help residents move away from inefficient heating arrangements by improving warmth, comfort and energy efficiency.

Funding was delivered through councils, housing associations and regional delivery partners, meaning support and eligibility often varied between locations.

The programme operated through local delivery partnerships and many funding phases have now concluded, with support routes varying by area.

What Support Did The Warm Homes Fund Provide?

The programme focused primarily on affordable heating improvements and first-time central heating installations.

Heating & Hot Water Improvements

Measures could include:

  • First-time central heating systems where none existed
  • Gas network connections where suitable
  • Modern heating systems designed to improve affordability and efficiency

Insulation & Additional Measures

Depending on local delivery arrangements, support could also include:

  • Loft insulation
  • Cavity wall insulation
  • Draught reduction measures
  • Energy advice and household support services

Available measures often varied depending on local council priorities and funding arrangements.

Who Previously Qualified?

Eligibility varied depending on local delivery partners and regional criteria.

Households often qualified where:

  • The property had an EPC rating of E, F or G
  • The property did not already have central heating installed
  • The household was considered low income or vulnerable

This could include:

  • Households receiving qualifying benefits
  • Income-based eligibility routes
  • Health conditions linked to cold homes
  • Other vulnerability criteria used locally

Additional information:

  • Homeowners, private tenants and social tenants could benefit
  • Tenants generally required landlord approval before works proceeded

How The Process Previously Worked

Step 1 – Local Programme Availability

Funding was delivered through local councils, housing associations and delivery partners rather than through a national application route.

Step 2 – Initial Enquiry

Households usually contacted local housing providers, councils or energy partners to check whether support was available.

Step 3 – Eligibility Review

Applicants could be asked to provide:

  • Household income information
  • Benefits details
  • EPC information
  • Health or vulnerability details

Step 4 – Property Assessment

A home survey could be arranged to determine suitability for heating improvements.

Step 5 – Approval & Installation

Approved contractors carried out any agreed heating or insulation works.

Looking For Current Grant Support?

Although Warm Homes Fund projects have largely concluded, energy funding and local support schemes continue to change.

Contact Grants Gateway to discuss current grants and available support routes through approved installer networks and local schemes.

Our team can help review available support and discuss what schemes may currently apply to your household circumstances.