Peterborough residents in need of white goods that are cheaper to run will benefit from a new cost of living support scheme.

Peterborough City Council will provide emergency efficient appliances to households whose existing white goods are out of use due to hardship caused by high running costs.

The unique support scheme will be funded by the Department for Work and Pensions as part of the local authority’s efforts to support residents with rising living costs.

Councillor John Howard, deputy leader of Peterborough City Council said: “I’m really proud of all the support we have offered communities over the past few years as living costs have risen, causing difficulties for many people.

“We will continue to help residents where we can, and this latest scheme is further proof of our commitment. I would encourage anyone who thinks they are eligible for support with this initiative to please get in touch or visit the support hubs as soon as possible.”

Applicants will be asked questions to help determine eligibility under the scheme and distribution of appliances will be on a first come, first served basis.

The initiative, which will offer residents more energy efficient alternatives to current appliances, is being provided at a number of cost of living support hubs across the city but is only available until the end of March.

The cost of living support hubs where the scheme is provided:

Barnardo’s Cost of Living Hubs

CareZone (white goods only)

Light Project Peterborough (small appliances, such as air friers and microwaves, only)

St Michael’s Church

Millfield Fridge

St John’s Church

St Mark’s Church

Wellspring Community Church

Westraven Community Garden and Café

For more information on the scheme, including eligibility criteria, and to access contact details cost of living support hubs, visit Peterborough City Council’s website.