Today is Fuel Poverty Awareness Day, and as more households across the region are struggling to pay their energy bills, residents are reminded that there is local support available.
In Tewkesbury Borough, estimates put current fuel poverty numbers at 5,820 households, which amounts to 14.8% of all households in the borough, well above the previously accepted national average of 10%. Predictions suggest that this figure could rise to 16.5% of households after next April.
With the cost of living rising across the board, it’s not surprising that many people are concerned about what the next year will bring.
This Fuel Poverty Awareness Day, we want our residents to know that there is support available, and that they don’t have to struggle with their energy costs alone.
Warm and Well is a fuel poverty and energy efficiency advice service funded by the seven local authorities in Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire. The service provides a freephone adviceline and tailored one-to-one energy support, and offers grant funding for home energy improvements. They also provide emergency funding for residents who find themselves in a ‘no heat’ situation.
Councillor Mary Jordan, Tewkesbury Borough Council’s lead member for community, said: “We’re proud to be providing support to residents who may be concerned about increased energy bills.
“The Warm and Well service offers expert advice and financial help to those who need it. Since the pandemic, it has supported over 10,000 households, and will continue to support those who find themselves in fuel poverty.”
If you’re struggling to keep on top of your energy bills or are wondering if you might be eligible for grant funding to make your home more energy efficient, you can call Warm and Well for free on 0800 500 3076. Right now, there is funding available for insulation, high heat retention storage heaters and renewable technologies such as solar and air source heat pumps. If your household income is under £30,000 a year, you might be eligible so it’s worth getting in touch with the friendly adviceline team.
Even if you don’t qualify for grant funding, Warm and Well have a wealth of expert advice and support on offer, all for free. Their energy advisors can provide detailed advice on your energy issues, and their team of Energy Advocates offer one-to-one tailored support for people who are really struggling. If your relationship with your supplier has broken down, you’re in substantial debt or are facing disconnection, the Advocacy team can help.
Don’t struggle alone – contact Warm and Well today. Call for free on 0800 500 3076, or visit their website to find out more.
Notes
Severn Wye Energy Agency is a non-profit company and registered charity primarily operating throughout Wales and its English border counties, supporting communities, residents and businesses to create a sustainable, affordable, low carbon future. They run the Warm and Well scheme, offering energy efficiency advice and fuel poverty support throughout Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire.
Web: www.warmandwell.co.uk
Twitter: @WarmAndWell
For more information or to arrange an interview, contact:
James Clarke (Director of Communications, Severn Wye): jamesc@severnwye.org.uk
Jade Craswell (Home Energy Advice Manager, Severn Wye): jadec@severnwye.org.uk
