Around 70,000 households in the county, which is 17pc of its homes, rely on the fuel for heating and hot water.

Many have seen the price of their heating oil double since the start of the war in the Middle East.

Norfolk County Council's crisis fund will offer help to low-income families, typically households with a combined income of under £35,000 a year.

The council says it will also take savings and any outstanding debts into account to ensure the support reaches those who need it most. 

Priority will be given to those who are set to run out of oil and are at immediate risk of losing access to heating and hot water. 

People will be asked to provide information about themselves and anyone else who lives with them. This includes two months of bank statements, details of outstanding debts and whether they have an oil payment plan in place. 

Once eligibility is confirmed, the council will offer grants of around £350 per household. There is also support available around setting up payment plans with oil suppliers. 

Tom McCabe, chief executive officer at Norfolk County Council, said: “This is a moment of real crisis for many Norfolk residents. 

"The Norfolk Heating Oil Crisis Fund will offer practical and timely support to those who are facing hardship.” 

“Norfolk’s rural communities face unique pressures, and the sharp rise in heating oil costs is landing hardest on the households least able to absorb it.

"We want everyone to know that help is here, and we are committed to supporting Norfolk families through this difficult period.” 

The Norfolk heating oil crisis fund is funded through a £3 million top-up to the 2026/27 crisis and resilience fund from the government.

Earlier this month, the prime minister announced £53 million of support for UK households affected by rising heating oil prices.

To apply for the council's crisis funding, visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/HeatingOil and those who cannot access support online can call 0344 800 8020.

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