Over 27,000 households are being written to this week reminding them that they are eligible for a one-off payment of £150 to help with rising energy costs. It is not a loan and they do not have to pay this back.



The letter also urges them to act now so that they don’t miss out because the scheme will be closing at the end of August.



So far, nearly 48,000 households have received their payments with a further 3,000 currently being processed.



Cllr Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement, said: “Now more than ever when residents are facing a cost-of-living crisis, it is important that the council does all it can to support everyone – especially our most vulnerable.



“I would urge residents who are yet to apply for their Council Tax Rebate to get in touch.”



For residents who do not have access to the internet, they can visit one of the following locations Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, where they can get help and support:



•    Dagenham Library, 1 Church Elm Lane, Dagenham RM10 9QS

•    Barking Library, BLC, 2 Town Square, Barking IG11 7NB

•    Marks Gate Community Hub, Rose Lane, Marks Gate, RM6 5NJ

•    Sue Bramley Community Hub (closed on Thursday), Bastable Avenue, Barking IG11 0LG

•    William Bellamy Community Hub (Closed on Thursday), Frizlands Lane, Dagenham RM10 7HX



Residents who are unable to physically attend any of the locations due to a disability or ill health should please contact the service by telephone on 020 8227 2926.



Residents are advised that it can take on average 2-3 weeks to receive payment from the date that they make their application.



For more information about the £150 Council Tax Energy Rebate scheme, visit www.lbbd.gov.uk/council-tax-rebate