The District Councils in Leicestershire and the Rutland County Council have recently secured funding to support local residents who are in fuel poverty. The funding is available until 31st March 2013 and can help to cover the following things:
- Low cost energy improvements such as hot water cylinder jackets, draught proofing and insulating loft hatches
- Changing pre-paid meters to better options
- Small deliveries of oil for households who are ‘off gas’ and who struggle to buy expensive fuels
- Improving the efficiency and safety of existing central heating systems – this can include hot water and central heating programmers, room thermostats and emergency boiler and fire repairs and servicing
- Some boiler replacements
- Emergency fuel top-up vouchers
Note that there is no eligibility criteria for accessing this help – so if you or anyone you know is living in cold housing contact the Home Energy Team for further information.
Home Energy Team, Leicester City Council, The Home Energy Office, 35 Rowsley Street, Leicester LE5 5JP
Tel: 0116 2211176
Don’t forget that the 125 Winter Fuel Fund helps Leicestershire people to redirect their winter fuel allowance. If you don’t need your allowance, the 125 Winter Fuel Fund can make sure this money is redirected to people who really need help to keep warm this winter. Through the 125 Winter Fuel Fund, the money is gift aided and distributed immediately to Age UK Leicestershire and Rutland.
Tony Donovan at Age UK says, “We truly welcome help for the most vulnerable in our community to survive the winter. We buy blankets, heaters, food and clothing and provide advice to help those most in need receive all the benefits to which they are entitled”
Donations can me made online or by post. You can also make a pledge by e-mail or phone us on 01162 222205.
