Applications are now being accepted for a fund to help homeowners and private tenants install energy-saving upgrades.

Individuals who haven’t been able to install improvements like insulation or solar panels can now apply for support through the Enabling Works Fund.

It is made possible by North Somerset Council’s share of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Managed by the Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE), the fund covers the costs to prepare homes for energy-saving enhancements and aims to make houses more energy-efficient, reducing energy bills.

The fund can assist with a variety of tasks, including clearing or removing boards from lofts, expanding loft hatches, removing debris for wall insulation, setting up scaffolding for insulation work, fixing structural issues like damaged brickwork, cleaning roofs and removing bird netting, and solving issues with felting wires.

Residents are encouraged to apply quickly as funding is available for approximately 12 households.

Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council’s executive member for placemaking and economy, said: "Improving energy efficiency in homes is a vital part of our effort to reduce carbon emissions and help residents manage rising energy costs.

"Unfortunately, too many people are held back by barriers that prevent them from making these crucial improvements.

"This Enabling Works Fund is a fantastic opportunity for homeowners to overcome those obstacles and make their homes more sustainable, comfortable, and affordable to run."

Paola Aldana, CSE’s project officer, added: "It is great to contribute to the greener nationwide agenda of creating more sustainable homes.

"Funding is often limited to more evident areas, but having a fund that addresses barriers presents a great opportunity to demonstrate that various challenges are being tackled, and that we are all working together towards a cleaner future.

"Our aim is to remove barriers that may be impeding householders to get energy efficiency measures installed."