**An update from our partners: Affinity Fuels**

The good news is that we are still taking orders, making deliveries, and working closely with suppliers to keep up to date with any changes. The final price will be determined by the market rate on the day of delivery, and unfortunately, we will not know the exact amount until we receive the supplier’s invoice.

We do have access to market information from The Oil Market Journal, which provides an indication of potential market movements for the following day. However, this is only a guide and cannot be relied upon as an accurate prediction. I have never seen the market change so rapidly from minute to minute on this platform. At one moment a forecast may show a rise of 5p per litre, then 10p or 14p the next. Last week, predictions even suggested a potential increase of up to 30p per litre for the following day, fortunately, it did not reach that level. This shows just how unpredictable the market currently is.

Across the UK, many suppliers are finding it difficult to provide fixed prices, and heating oil prices have risen significantly in a short period of time, we have seen pricing well over ?1 per litre and even ?1.30–?1.50. We appreciate that these prices are extremely high and unaffordable for many households.

At present there is product availability, but delivery times are currently around three weeks due to the exceptional demand. We are also seeing many customers placing orders out of concern about further price increases, which is understandable, but it has contributed to the higher demand we are currently experiencing.

As a precaution, we would encourage customers to use oil carefully where possible for example, lowering the thermostat slightly, checking tank levels regularly rather than relying solely on a Watchman gauge, and keeping an eye on neighbours who may need support.

We are doing everything we can to support customers where possible and would advise customers to try plan and budget during this uncertain time. Customers may wish to consider ordering the minimum delivery amount.

As much as we would like to reassure everyone, much will depend on how events unfold in the Middle East, as the situation is having a significant influence on global fuel markets. With so many factors at play, it remains difficult to predict exactly where prices will move next.