After a long wait for the scheme to open, there are now just a few days left for Isle of Wight energy customers to apply for the £400 Energy Bills Support Alternative Funding.

On Wednesday, an Isle of Wight Council officer will be at Pan Together, at Downside Community Centre, from 9am to 3pm, to offer help and support.

Care home residents and Islanders who live in park homes have until May 31 to request their government cash.

The scheme covers those who did not get energy bill support payments automatically, via direct debit.

As the Isle of Wight County Press reported in February, while many were already getting financial help to see them through escalating winter energy costs, some Islanders were having to find the extra cash themselves.

The scheme opened at the end of the month, after setbacks.

Meanwhile, £200 is available for Islanders who use mainly use alternative fuels (liquid petroleum gas (LPG), oil or solid fuel, logs, waste wood or pellets (biomass) and who are connected to the electricity grid.

Follow the link to apply before May 31.

There is also a warning that if you have a voucher, it should be cashed in by June 30. Although they expire after 90 days, you can ask for them to be reissued.