IT IS a one-stop shop for tips on how to save thousands of pounds.

A guide to reducing home energy bills has been put together in a bid to cut the cost of living in Hampshire.

Stay Warm, Save Money explains how people can apply for Government grants, save money on insulation and even lower the carbon footprint of their home.

The free booklet, produced by Southampton MP Alan Whitehead, pictured, includes information on winter fuel payments, cold weather payments, insulation grants, warm front grants, microgeneration grants, social tariffs and switching energy providers.

The handbook also details how you can apply for grants of up to £2,500 for a number of green energy producing devices including solar panels, wind turbines and biomass heating.

Dr Whitehead, Southampton Test MP, said: “Most households are now eligible for some kind of help with their energy bills, whether it is through grants to insulate their home, preferential tariffs or winter fuel payments. But I know it can be hard to work out what you are entitled to. That’s why I’ve set out in this handbook all the help that’s available and what the cash savings are.”

John Moreton, assistant director of Age Concern Hampshire, said: “I think it’s extremely useful for people to have information like this.

“The more oportunities there are for people to get hold of this type of information the better. Although there are other initiatives as well, the more the message gets out the more likely people who need it will get it.”

The handbook follows on from Dr Whitehead’s well-received Anti-Social Behaviour Handbook, published last summer, which explains all your rights under the law for dealing with antisocial behaviour and vandalism.

Click HERE to download 'Stay Warm, Save Money' or email alan@alan-whitehead.org.uk, or from Dr Whitehead’s office on 023 8023 1942.