Grants improve energy efficiency for fuel poor

Poor people living in cold damp homes will now get up to £2,500 to help improve energy efficiency. The scheme called ‘Better Housing, Better Health’ has been launched by the National […]

Poor people living in cold damp homes will now get up to £2,500 to help improve energy efficiency.

The scheme called ‘Better Housing, Better Health’ has been launched by the National Energy Foundation charity, working in partnership with eleven local authorities across Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire and with funding from the British Gas Energy Trust.

The project, which runs all year, will offer help to those homes where someone suffers from a respiratory or cardiovascular illness. It will offer up to £2,500 to help with improvements like draught proofing, insulation, replacing doors and windows.

There will also be advice offered on energy switching and fuel debt mediation. NEF will work with social workers and local NHS staff to decide who is eligible for help.

Project Manager, Alexandra Steeland, commented: “With winter upon us, this is the time of year when anyone living in a cold or damp home with a cardiovascular disease or a respiratory illness is most affected by the weather.

“Anyone who thinks they might be eligible for support from the scheme should either visit our website and download the referral form or contact our Affordable Warmth Helpline on freephone 0800 107 0044.”

Although generally considered affluent counties, NEF says 7.9% of households in Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire are fuel poor.

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