We started the Warmth Matters project in 2019, delivered jointly with Surrey Community Action, funded by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN). The project currently goes until March 2022 but we are hoping to secure funding to continue.
At end of project’s first year, 55 one-to-one support sessions had been delivered (after adapting project from public events to Zoom).
- 90% had been unaware of priority services register prior to our engagement
- 75% were unfamiliar with Warm Home Discount Scheme
Example of one family:
Family (referred by a local foodbank), were supported who had a pre-payment meter and in emergency credit and no immediate way of topping up their meter. They were issued with fuel vouchers which prevented self-disconnection, and also enabled their children to continue to get online for remote school work. They were issued with advice and information on saving energy at home, signposted to local community projects as well as sources of further help including the PSR and Warm Home Discount.
Did you know?
December 3rd is Fuel Poverty Awareness Day!
In the UK, over three million households are estimated to be living in fuel poverty. This is the term used to refer to a situation where a household is unable to afford to heat their home to the temperature needed to stay warm and healthy.
While the exact definition and measurement varies across the UK, the main contributors to fuel poverty are low incomes, rising energy prices, and inadequate heating, poor insulation and ventilation.
It’s a situation that tends to see the poorest people, who live in the least energy efficient homes, pay the most for their energy. And it’s a situation that gets worse in the winter months, when the temperature drops, and householders find themselves struggling to meet basic living expenses like energy bills.
Information on getting support:
In England, visit the UK Government website to find out if you’re eligible for financial support, including the:
There are also advice pages on:
Improving your heating at home
Reducing heat loss through insulation
Financial support available to make your home more energy efficient
