UPDATE: Landlords taking tenants' energy support payment vouchers

UPDATE:

Saturday, January 21, 2023

It has been reported that two people had their energy support payment vouchers returned to them by their landlord.

However, it is believed that a number of other people are reporting that their energy support payment vouchers have been taken. 

Speaking to Derry Now, Column Eastwood MP said: "We are delighted some people have got their money back but this should never have happened in the first place.

"I would ask anyone else affected by this issue to reach out and we will do everything we can to help."

Also speaking to Derry Now, a Post Office spokesperson said: “The Post Office’s role is to help support customers to redeem their vouchers. Post Office had no involvement in the design of the scheme. Any issues with regards to landlords and their tenants should be directed to the energy companies.

“Keypad customers will receive a voucher from their supplier addressed to “The Occupier” of their property and need to bring their keypad card or app to the Post Office to redeem the voucher.”

Friday, January 20, 2023:

Alarm has been expressed at reports of landlords claiming energy support payment vouchers intended for their tenants.

Foyle MP, Colum Eastwood, said his office had been contacted by constituents seeking help after their vouchers were taken.

Mr Eastwood said: "These vouchers are intended to help people with their energy bills and should be going to those who need them most.

"I am deeply alarmed after having people visit and contact my constituency office seeking assistance after their landlord claimed their £600 energy support payment voucher and told them they were the ones entitled to it. These vouchers were designed to help people struggling with the huge rise in electricity and heating costs, not to further line the pockets of landlords and I am shocked that this is taking place within our community.

“The guidance is clear – these vouchers are intended for those currently occupying the property and paying for their own energy bills. Even if the current account is in the name of the landlord this voucher is not intended for them and it is completely wrong of them to try and claim it from tenants in need. Those affected are understandably extremely concerned that this has taken place, with many waiting for and relying on this payment to get through the winter, particularly during the cold weather we have been experiencing. 

“I have contacted the Post Office to identify what assistance they can give to tenants in this situation and to examine whether landlords can be prevented from wrongly claiming this money. There are people in our community who will need to this voucher to heat their homes and keep putting food on the table and it’s staggering anyone would seek to exploit this situation for their own gain.