Blog: Why energy advice is vital for veterans

For many veterans, leaving the armed forces marks the beginning of a new chapter. While civilian life can bring fresh opportunities, it can also present challenges. People no longer part of active service may spend more time at home, leading to higher energy usage and higher bills. Managing household bills, navigating the energy market and keeping a home warm and affordable can be difficult, particularly for veterans facing health issues, financial pressures or major life transitions. 

Energy advice plays a vital role in helping veterans maintain their wellbeing, reduce costs, and access support they may not realise is available. 

The challenge of rising energy costs 

Energy bills remain one of the largest household expenses for many people. Some veterans be more vulnerable due to factors such as injury, disability, mental health conditions, or limited incomes after leaving military service. 

For veterans adjusting to civilian life, understanding energy tariffs, managing direct debits, or knowing where to seek help when bills become unaffordable can be overwhelming. Independent energy advice can help veterans take control of their energy costs and avoid falling into debt. 

Many veterans live with long-term physical health conditions or injuries sustained during service. Cold homes can make these conditions worse, increasing discomfort and potentially leading to poorer health outcomes. 

Keeping a home adequately heated is particularly important for those with mobility issues, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), respiratory conditions, cardiovascular disease, or chronic pain. Energy advice can help veterans understand how to heat their homes more efficiently, access grants for heating improvements, and identify support schemes that could reduce costs. 

National Energy Action’s work with veterans 

We often attend veterans support and information days across and have strong relationships with veterans organisations across the UK including in Lincolnshire and Cornwall. We hold energy awareness sessions at veterans support groups, and we find that providing bespoke one-to-one support helps veterans and their families to stay safe warm and well in their own homes. 

I work closely with the Veterans Support Office in Lincolnshire. Their Chief Executive Simon Hallam told us, ‘Being able to get advice from Liz at National Energy Action is absolutely invaluable. We have worked together to solve situations for veterans that otherwise could bring them to the brink. Working with them is now, more than ever, a godsend.’  

Support is available, but many veterans don’t know about it 

There is a wide range of support available for households struggling with energy costs, including grants, benefits, supplier assistance funds, and schemes to improve home energy efficiency improvements. National Energy Action frequently attends veterans groups to provide tailored advice about the support that they can access.  

Many veterans are unaware that they may qualify for financial assistance or specialist support. Our Benefits Entitlement service can help identify the support available and guide veterans through the application process, ensuring they receive the help they are entitled to. 

Helping veterans on fixed or lower incomes 

Some veterans rely on pensions, benefits, or other fixed incomes. When household costs increase, it can be difficult to absorb higher energy bills. 

Professional energy advice can help veterans: 

• Reduce energy consumption without sacrificing comfort 

• Check whether they are on the best energy tariff 

• Access fuel vouchers or emergency support 

• Understand their billing and payment options 

• Find ways to improve their home’s energy efficiency 

• Find out if there are any benefits they’re entitled to but aren’t claiming 

Small changes can often make a significant difference to annual energy costs. 

Supporting mental wellbeing 

Financial worries and energy debt can have a serious impact on mental health. For veterans already managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or the challenges of adjusting to civilian life, concerns about heating a home can add further stress. 

Accessing energy advice can provide reassurance and practical solutions. Knowing where to turn for support can help reduce uncertainty and prevent problems from escalating. 

Reaching veterans before a crisis 

One of the greatest benefits of energy advice is prevention. Seeking support early can help veterans avoid energy debt, disconnection, or having to cut back on other essentials. 

Whether it’s understanding a bill, applying for financial support, or improving home energy efficiency, early intervention often leads to better outcomes and greater peace of mind. 

That’s why National Energy Action attend events in order to meet veterans in their own communities.  

No veteran should struggle alone 

Veterans have given so much in service to their country. Everyone should be able to afford to stay warm and well at home and be able to navigate the energy market with confidence. 

Energy advice provides practical support, access to financial assistance, and reassurance during difficult times. By connecting veterans with the information and help they need, energy advice can play an important role in improving health, wellbeing, and financial security. 

For veterans facing energy challenges, reaching out for advice is not a sign of weakness. It’s a positive step towards a warmer, healthier and more affordable home. 

If you’re struggling, you can find out about support we offer here.