Sense says any targeted support for energy bills must put disabled people ‘front and centre’

24 March 2026 – Today Rachel Reeves has said that there could be targeted support for energy bills for those who need it the most – though the detail of who this is, and what form this support would take, remains unclear.

The national disability charity Sense says it’s vital that any targeted support recognises the extra energy costs disabled people face.

Responding to the Chancellor’s announcement, Evan John, Policy Advisor at Sense, said:

“It’s welcome that the government is looking at targeted energy support for the people that need it most. Disabled people must be front and centre of these plans.

“Running a home costs more if you’re disabled. Many people rely on energy for essential medical equipment, like feeding pumps and breathing machines, and need to keep their homes a comfortable temperature to stay safe. This all means higher energy bills.

“Many disabled households are already living in financial crisis, with current welfare benefits barely covering the essentials. The looming threat of further cost-of-living hikes is causing even greater anxiety and fear – any targeted support introduced by the government must recognise these extra costs and respond accordingly.”